Discover the Magic of the Gruffalo Trail at High Lodge, Thetford
Looking for an affordable and enchanting day out with the family this summer? Look no further than the Gruffalo Trail at High Lodge in Thetford Forest. Just just an hour’s drive from St Ives, this gem of a place offers a great blend of adventure, nature, and fun, making it the perfect destination for families. Our family of four (2 adults, 3 year old and 2 year old) recently visited and had an incredible time—all for less than £30!
The Journey Begins: An Easy Drive from St Ives
The journey from St Ives to Thetford Forest is a breeze. With scenic forest views along the way, the one-hour drive passes quickly, particularly if there are aircraft flying from the local Mildenhall RAF base! Upon arrival, you’ll find ample parking available, though there is a fee. But once you’ve parked, the rest of the day is filled with free activities and endless fun.
Embrace the Magic: The Gruffalo Trail
The Gruffalo Trail was our highlight of High Lodge, bringing the beloved characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s story to life. As you wander through the forest, keep your eyes peeled for life-sized statues of the Gruffalo and other characters, providing fantastic photo opportunities and sparking the imaginations of little ones.
Children will love following the trail map, searching for clues, and discovering the enchanting woodland creatures. The trail is designed to be accessible for all, with well-marked paths that make it easy for families with strollers or young children to navigate.
You can do the trail without purchasing the activity pack, but for £4 we found it really worth while and made it more interesting being able to join in the activities that are described on each board (5 in total) along the trail.
Fun for All Ages: Play Equipment and Open Spaces
In addition to the Gruffalo Trail, High Lodge has a good variety of play equipment scattered throughout the forest. From climbing frames to slides and swings, there’s something to keep kids of all ages entertained. The well-maintained play areas are strategically placed along the trail, allowing for breaks and bursts of energy release as you explore.
For those who love to run around and play games, High Lodge offers vast open spaces. Bring a football, frisbee, or even a kite, and enjoy some family-friendly sports in the outdoors. The supermarkets have some amazing deals on garden games at the moment – ideal!
Refuel and Recharge: On-Site Café
You can absolutely take your own food and drink into High Lodge. You can even hire a BBQ to cook yourself! But you prefer not to bring your own food, High Lodge has a lovely on-site café offering a range of refreshments. A convenient option for families, but one we didn’t use so I can’t comment on pricing, quality, etc. However, packing a picnic can be a more budget-friendly choice, allowing you to enjoy your meal amidst the natural beauty of the forest or in the large playing area central to all of the ameneties.
An Affordable Day Out
One of the most appealing aspects of High Lodge is its affordability. After paying for parking, which is the only mandatory expense, the rest of the day’s activities are free, with the exception of Go Ape and the Adventure Golf. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a full day of entertainment, exploration, and family bonding without breaking the bank. Our family of four managed to spend less than £30, making it an excellent option for those looking for a cheap day out during the summer holidays.
Plan Your Visit
We found High Lodge a fantastic destination for families seeking fun in the great outdoors. With the Gruffalo Trail, extensive play equipment, spacious picnic areas, and convenient on-site amenities, it promises a memorable experience for all ages.
So, pack your picnic, grab your camera, and head to High Lodge for a day filled with laughter, exploration, and the magic of the Gruffalo. It’s a perfect way to create lasting memories without spending a fortune. We will definitely be heading back there again in future!
Plan your own visit here: https://www.forestryengland.uk/high-lodge