Planning your visit

Getting the most of your visit:

We try to keep the footpaths and steps as clear and safe as possible, but please remember that this is a restoration project in progress, so take care as you explore.

Getting here and parking

If you put Tortworth Forest Centre into Sat Navs or google maps you are likely to be directed to the business park, which no longer allows access to our lane. Please follow the directions below and links instead,

Address: Tortworth Forest Centre, off Tortworth Road, Wotton-Under-Edge, GL12 8HH

Google maps link: maps.app.goo.gl/EGi6sviaRgb6i6cCA

What Three Words location: listening.worth.snippets 

We are neighbours to the De Vere Tortworth Court Hotel and share a driveway with them which is accessed from Tortworth Road. Turn into the hotel driveway; after a couple of passing places you will come to a small lane on the right ahead of a stone building with blue window frames. Turn right here, through a gate and crossing the river.

Please note this is a no through road. Continue around half way up until the lane widens opposite a pedestrian and farm gate. This is the turning area. Turn around before parking on the kerb on the left. Leave space for other cars to pass and access the turning place. The entrance to the arboretum is opposite the turning place.

Arriving by public transport

The number 60 bus travels along the B4509, shown on the map above. Alight at Tortworth Primary School and walk along Tortworth Road for around 5 minutes, following signs for the De Vere Tortworth Court and Arboretum. Then from the hotel driveway follow directions above.

Accessibility

Due to the natural pathways the site is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. There are a few inclines and slopes, as well as steps in various places. The ground can be slippery underfoot during wet periods. A few brave visitors have brought off-road buggies, but there are several steps and a kissing gate so it’s advisable to leave all wheels at home.

Toilets

We have 1 compost loo on site that will be cleaned regularly during events. We have hand sanitizer available on site for handwashing during Tortworth Forest Centre events. Hirers are encouraged to bring their own.

Water

There is no running water on site so you should bring plenty of drinking water.

Food and drink

We are currently unable to provide any refreshments so think ahead if you’d like to bring any food or a hot drink. Take all rubbish (including organic matter) away with you.

Footwear and clothing

Wear suitable footwear and clothing for being outside and walking on uneven ground. Off the paths the vegetation is long, and there are lots of brambles and nettles around – please bear this in mind if bringing young children.

Ticks

There are ticks on site so we recommend wearing trousers and long sleeves whatever the weather (and do a tick check when you get home!).

Dogs

We welcome well behaved dogs and considerate dog owners. Please keep dogs under control, especially around the fire and bag and remove any waste. There are deer here and other wildlife which should not be disturbed. We do not have a dog waste bin on site.

Adverse weather

We occasionally have to cancel events and volunteering sessions due to very strong winds, as the site becomes unsafe. In these instances we will aim to give as much notice as possible (up to 24 hours). For drop-in events it is worth checking our website and social media channels before coming.

Most importantly, we hope you enjoy the fresh air and serenity of this beautiful place.