The arboretum was donated to the National Trust by Dr. Wilfrid Fox, a physician who possessed a private passion for landscape gardening.
The collection contains several champion trees, which are the largest or tallest recorded examples of their species in the UK.
The arboretum occupies a site that was once part of the much larger Oakhurst estate.
The lake at the center of the arboretum was created by damming a small stream valley to provide a focal point for the landscape.
Many of the trees were imported from across the globe, specifically selected to test their survival in the temperate climate of Southern England.
The site uses a 'landscape garden' style, blending scientific botanical collections with aesthetic design principles.
During the spring, the arboretum features an extensive display of bluebells in the woodland sections.
Winkworth Arboretum is a hillside woodland collection featuring over 1,000 distinct species of trees and shrubs maintained by the National Trust. It was established in 1938 by Dr. Wilfrid Fox, who donated the initial 60 acres to the public. The landscape is designed specifically to showcase vibrant seasonal color changes, particularly during spring flowering and autumn foliage. The site encompasses a central lake, known as The Bowl, surrounded by diverse tree specimens including rare maples, oaks, and magnolias. The topography is steeply sloped, requiring visitors to navigate significant elevation changes across the path network. Rare species include the Liriodendron tulipifera and extensive collections of Japanese maples. The woodland provides a managed habitat for local wildlife, including kingfishers and dragonflies near the lake. Footpaths connect various viewpoints across the hillside, overlooking the surrounding Surrey Hills AONB. The site is recognized for its internationally significant collection of mountain shrubs and trees.
The boathouse viewing point looking back across the lake during the peak autumn color season.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the hillside paths become slippery and muddy after rain.
Bring binoculars if you plan to visit the lake area to spot local birdlife.
Use the provided map to identify the 'steep gradient' paths if you prefer a gentler walking experience.
Attempting to walk the entire perimeter without checking the steepness of the trails, especially if mobility is limited.
Open year-round, but parking capacity may be restricted during peak autumn weekends.
Dogs must be kept on short leads at all times to protect ground-nesting birds; do not climb trees.
