Autumn Walk at Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey, UK

Winkworth Arboretum was founded by Dr Wilfred Fox, in the early 20th century, and covers 95 hectares. The garden has been set up for those beautiful Autumn colours, with all kinds of red, orange, yellow and brown leaves making a striking impact.

In 1938, Dr Fox planted more than 1000 species of trees, to create his own unique landscape. The garden has now been given the nickname the ‘museum of trees’.

There are 3 set walks you can follow through Winkworth Arboretum, using the map they give you at the counter. These are each at a different level of difficulty, the hardest one goes up a couple of steep hills, but it is still manageable for most people and doesn’t take too long. You can easily spend a few hours here though, taking a leisurely stroll and admiring the trees or stopping to take pictures.

There are several viewpoints at Winkworth Arboretum, where you can really appreciate the beauty of this place. These are situated by the Magnolia Wood, the hill above the Azalea Steps, the Eastern Meadow, and the view from the Boathouse by the lake. Seeing the purple, gold, and crimson colours with the green rolling hills in the background just gives you those Autumn vibes!

Types of trees you can see at Winkworth:

• Maple trees
• Japanese maple groves
• Liquidambar
• Tulip trees
• Hickory trees
• Larch trees
• Dawn redwood

The central feature is the boathouse by the lake, which has actually been used as a TV set for several series and films. From here you can enjoy the peacefulness and beautiful views, especially with the Autumn colours reflecting in the lake.

When is the best time to visit Winkworth Arboretum?

Autumn is considered one of the best times to visit Winkworth Arboretum, as many trees were planted with this season in mind. Mid-October to mid-November is the peak of Autumn. However, this is one of those places that looks beautiful all year round.

Spring is also delightful with the pretty bluebells, rhododendrons, magnolias, daffodils, cherry blossoms, and azaleas. In summer everything is green and vibrant, with the dogwoods in flower. In winter you can see the holy bushes with bright red berries and take a stroll around the winter garden.

How much is it to visit Winkworth Arboretum?

As it is a National Trust property, there is a charge to get in, but it is free for National Trust members.

The price in April 2022 is £11 for an adult, £5.50 for a child and £27.50 for a family ticket. In my opinion £11 was a bit steep, but if you regularly visit National Trust properties, it’s worth getting the yearly membership, which includes free parking too.

Opening times are 10am to 5pm in the summer months and 10am to 4pm in the winter months, although the last entry is 3pm. The tearoom will close 30 min to 1 hour before closing.

Also, I didn’t realise before, but there is also a free public footpath that goes through Winkworth Arboretum. You have to stick to the path so I am not sure how much you will be able to see but could be a good option if you are looking for a more budget option.

Check the official website for the updated times and prices. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/winkworth-arboretum
Getting to Winkworth Arboretum

Train: I came via public transport and the closest train station was Godalming, which is around an hour’s walk to Winkworth. However, the walk there was almost just as pretty as the place itself! It goes through public footpaths, some sections on the road (although a pretty road under a canopy of trees), and through a stunning Juniper Forest.

Bus: the 42 bus stops outside Winkworth Arboretum and passes back through Godalming and onto Guildford. Check the times before you leave as they may not come too frequently.

Bear in mind that the buses do not run on a Sunday (which I found out the hard way and had to walk back to the station in the rain!). You could also call a cab but make sure you have data, as my Wi-Fi cut out and I couldn’t get a signal.

Car: Winkworth is situated on the B2130 road. If you do have access to a car, this would be the easiest option as the arboretum is in a quiet village, and the road outside does not have pavement.

Thanks for reading this post, and I hope you enjoy your visit in whichever season you choose!

Here are some more walks around the world to try:

• Bakewell to Chatsworth House Walk (with photos)
• Walk with the San Bushmen People in Botswana
• 9 Best Walking Tracks in Brisbane
• Walking the Brooklyn Bridge, NYC