Why do I have to pay to visit High Lodge?
The cost of running High Lodge is considerable. The contribution customers make helps us to build and maintain the facilities, which in turn allows us to provide walking and cycling trails, play equipment, to recycle the refuse, stage concerts and provide education visits for schools.
Currently, the Pay-On-Foot barrier system, is the most cost effective way of raising income to support the site. Strictly speaking customers are required to pay to access the site by vehicle (see terms and conditions).
Accessing the site by cycle, foot, motorcycle or the local Brecks bus is free.
What do I get for my money?
- Access to over 50 pieces of play equipment
- 10 miles of walking trails
- All ability facilities
- Ranger service – first aid/lost children etc
- Access to 10,000 Ha of ‘free to roam’ Forest
- Use of the Forest Drive to access the site
- 24hr toilets
- 35 miles of cycle trails
- Picnic facilities
- Car Parks
- Orienteering trail
- Access to Bike Art, Go-Ape!, Go Forest Segways!, Battlefield Live and SOS Outdoor Skills trainng and other temporary attractions at peak times of the year.
I’m happy to pay to visit High Lodge but I don’t think the Forestry Commission puts enough money into facilities?
The annual cost of running High Lodge is nearly £2 million. All of the facilities and services on offer are expensive to install, run and maintain. For example, improvements made to the Red cycle trail in 2009 cost over £60,000.
Why do you not offer concessions for blue badge holders?
We believe that the current tariff already provides outstanding value for money for all.
Are there any cheaper ways to visit High Lodge?
Yes. For example visiting using a Discovery pass can cost you less than £1.00 per visit, if you visit the site on a weekly basis.
Tell us what you think about our services and facilities.
Please fill out a comment card, available from the Site Entry and Information Office.
For more information please visit www.forestry.gov.uk/highlodge or High Lodge Site Entry Office.
