The Douglas Firs were planted in 1859 as part of a Victorian experimental plantation to test non-native species in the New Forest soil.
The arboretum holds one of the finest collections of coniferous trees in the south of England.
Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, where the arboretum is located, is famous for its seasonal display of azaleas and rhododendrons.
The site acts as an open-air laboratory for forestry research and tree species conservation.
Blackwater Arboretum is located within the New Forest National Park and is globally recognized for its collection of 19th-century exotic and native conifers. It is specifically distinguished by a towering stand of Douglas Firs planted in 1859, which are among the tallest trees in the United Kingdom. The site features a surfaced, circular trail designed for accessibility, winding through historic arboreal plantings. The arboretum serves as a sanctuary for diverse forest wildlife and specialized botanical specimens. It is managed by Forestry England and is situated directly off the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive.
Looking upwards from the base of the tallest Douglas Fir stands to capture the scale of the vertical trunks.
Bring binoculars as the tall canopy attracts diverse bird species.
Wear waterproof footwear, as the forest floor remains damp even during dry spells.
Park at the designated Rhinefield or Blackwater car parks to access the marked trails.
Attempting to walk through the dense undergrowth off-path, which can damage the arboretum's delicate ecosystem.
Stay on marked trails to protect the root systems of the historic trees; keep dogs under close control.
