Alice Holt Forest - Footpaths and Pond

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Treasure Hunt through Alice Holt Forest, with explorers following woodland trails, footpaths and forest tracks as they track down the lost Roman pot of gold hidden within the missing mast.

The route includes narrow paths, tree roots, slopes, mud and steps, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Important: You will be walking on uneven woodland terrain shared with cyclists and other forest users, so explorers should watch their footing, stay alert at all times and keep younger adventurers under close supervision. Take extra care on muddy patches, exposed roots and slopes, and be mindful of bikes along wider paths.

Getting There

By car: Alice Holt Forest, Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham (GU10 4LS) - park at the Visitor Centre car park (Forestry England charges apply).

By public transport: Take the bus from Aldershot or Farnham for an easy 15-minute walk to the visitor centre. You can also take the train to Bentley for a longer walk through the forest.

Need the Loo?

Even the boldest explorers need a quick pit stop! Toilets are available at the Visitor Centre at the start and finish of your adventure, but there are no facilities out in the forest, so it’s important to plan ahead before heading deeper into your quest.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged explorers are welcome on the quest 🐾

With miles of woodland trails to explore, it’s a brilliant outing for dogs - just keep leads handy near cyclists, busier paths, play areas and by the pond, but otherwise they are free to stretch their legs.  and wildlife areas. There's also a handy dog-wash facility if they get super-muddy sniffing out some of the clues!

Food & Drink Stops

Treasure hunting is hungry work! There is a café at the Visitor Centre, but once you head into the forest you will need to be self-sufficient, so it’s a great idea to bring along snacks and drinks.

A top spot for a break is Lodge Pond, around halfway through the Trail, where you’ll find a perfect place to pause, refuel and plot your next move.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Woodland Trails and Forest Exploration

Alice Holt is packed with scenic woodland routes, from quiet shaded paths to open clearings - ideal for extending your adventure beyond the treasure hunt.

Roman History and Hidden Industry

This forest was once a major centre for Roman pottery production, adding a real historical edge to your search for the missing gold.

Mini Explorer Play Stops

Young adventurers can blow off extra steam at the playground or play structures that you'll pass during the earlier parts of your quest and at the end.