Bell tents in Savernake Forest

Towering beech trees, ancient oaks, and twisted roots provide a dramatic backdrop for woodland walks in Savernake Forest. Enjoy nature walks or leisurely bike rides along the tree-lined trails, venture off-road to explore the wooded glades, then find a shady picnic spot beneath the trees. Highlights include Capability Brown’s Grand Avenue, the bluebell woods at Little Frith, and the Big Bellied Oak, one of the country’s oldest trees. There’s no camping in the forest itself, but there is a campsite right by the northern entrance, where you can pitch your tent or park your caravan within strolling distance of the forest trails.

These woodlands are photo-ready at any time of year. Visit in spring when bluebells and wildflowers blanket the forest floor, or in fall when the autumn leaves transform the trees into a sea of red, yellow, and orange. Summer (July-Aug) weekends can get busy—make an early start to avoid the crowds and snag a picnic bench. The trails can get muddy when it rains, so wellies or hiking boots are a good idea.

• Savernake Forest is located about a 10-minute drive south of Marlborough along the A346. The main entrance is at Postern Hill at the northwest end of the park, where free parking is available.
• There is no entrance fee to visit the forest.
• The forest has picnic and barbecue areas, and restrooms (open from Easter through October only). There are no other facilities within the park, so bring everything you need with you. 
• There are some paved paths in the forest that are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.