Lynford Arboretum and Lakes

Address: Lynford, Thetford IP26 5HW

Difficulty: All paths flat and clear

Let’s start by saying, I count myself very lucky to live in close proximity to Thetford Forest. One of the most popular areas for visiting in the Forest is Lynford Arboretum and Lakes. Luckily for me these are walking distance from home.

The area has an impressive variety of bird life, wild flowers and fungi in the autumn. The arboretum is a perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet and take time to get back to nature.

Part of the arboretum used to belong to Lynford Hall Estate. These days the hall remains well maintained and is set in stunning grounds, seeing use as a hotel.

Lynford Hall Hotel will be better known to some and recognised as the filming location for a lot of the TV series Allo Allo. The courtyard of the hotel was transformed into the film set used for Nouvion village square. Also, the outside of the building was used for a variety of purposes but mainly as the exterior of the German officers chateau.

Access to Lynford Lakes & Arboretum

Going from the Village of Mundford there are three ways to get to the arboretum on foot.

Walking up the Lynford Road from the A1065 that goes through the village. This is also the main route for visiting by car and there is not a footpath all the way
Following the public footpath from opposite the end of London Lane. This has it’s challenges as it is not always very well maintained and is also badly sign posted . As such you have to follow your sense of direction somewhat
By taking a stroll up West Tofts Lane from by the roundabout in the village. Like Lynford Road this has limited footpaths but has a lot less traffic. After about a mile there is a small car park on the left. From here a clear path is sign posted to the Arboretum.

Since earlier in 2025 parking charges now apply for visiting Lynford. However, if you time it right you may be able to park on the road for free. At the time of writing in Nov 2025 the charges were £1.80 for up to 2 hours, with an all day option at £3

At Lynford

Once you are at Lynford you can either visit the arboretum or the lakes. At the arboretum there are a choice of three walks of different lengths sign posted around the area.

Lynford Water is an attractive area of flooded former gravel pits. Set in the Wissey valley, which includes an area of sandy beach. Like the arboretum there is plenty of wildlife to see by the lakes and in them.

Located on the edge of both Lynford Arboretum and Lynford Lakes is The Shepherd’s Baa café. The cafe is situated in an ideal spot for dog walkers, bird watchers and anyone with an interest in the outdoors. The cafe serves a good selection of hot drinks at sensible prices. As well as this is also has locally sourced cakes and snacks such as sausage rolls and bacon baps. If the weather is against you they now have an undercover seating area with comfy

Lynford Arboretum and Lakes – Thetford