Westonbirt, the National Arboretum
Tetbury

Westonbirt Arboretum is a living, breathing collection of some of the most remarkable, rare and stunning trees on the planet; a unique setting to escape, relax or have an adventure!

Westonbirt Arboretum’s story begins nearly 200 years ago with Robert Holford; an ambitious man with a passion for the natural world. Holford planted trees from across the globe in his arboretum aesthetically by laying them out according to the Picturesque movement that was sweeping the art world. The result is a botanical collection that is famed worldwide not only for its astonishing diversity, but also its breathtaking beauty.

Awesome autumn

Don’t miss out on over 15,000trees putting on one of the world’s most spectacular autumn shows. Autumn is the perfect time to visit with friends and family to experience a dazzling display of vibrant reds, yellows, oranges and purples; nature’s very own firework display.

Winter wonderland

Winter is a magical time to explore a different side to the arboretum. Cold, crisp, frosty visits where the architecture, silhouettes and textures of the trees take centre stage. On your next winter stroll, keep your eyes peeled for birdlife as well as a host of fabulous fungi.

Sensational spring 

Watch nature come alive at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum. Spring is a special time as new life starts to awaken and the arboretum is transformed into a riot of colour. See extraordinary rhododendrons hailing from the Himalayas, stunning carpets of bluebells and marvellous flowering magnolias.

Summer splendor

There’s nothing more satisfying than a summer stroll through the arboretum. A feeling of calm filters through trees, creating the perfect atmosphere to take in the sights and smells of the arboretum. Head into the Old Arboretum to see our National Collection of lime trees and notice the abundance of bees and butterflies in their wildflower haven as you stroll across The Downs.

Activities

STIHL tree top walkway: Explore the trees of Westonbirt Arboretum on a whole new level by taking a magical walkthrough the canopy.

Gruffalo Sculptures: Enjoy a fun day out as you meet the characters from Julia Donaldson’s classic story. Your little ones will love the sculptures of Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and Squirrel as well as the Gruffalo himself!

Natural play trail: Build a den, clamber over logs, scramble through tyre tunnels, discover the mystical troll bridge and much, much more on the natural play trail!

Easy to get around 

There are several miles of hard-path through the arboretum, suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and prams. We also offer free mobility scooter loan, a fully equipped Changing Place, and a shuttle service during spring and summer. You can reserve a mobility scooter or a manual wheelchair at the same time as booking your tickets online. 

Restaurant and shop

Pop in to the restaurant for a well-deserved break after your walk and enjoy a refreshing drink and delicious food, or pick up a souvenir from our shop. 

Dogs 

Dog-friendly Silk Wood offers hundreds of acres to explore, but please note that the Old Arboretum is a dog free zone.

Visitor Information 

Open 9am – 5pm, every day except Christmas Day. Last entry: 4.30pm (March – November); 4pm (December – February)

Tickets can be purchased on site or pre-booked on line. However, for the following dates it is essential to pre-book online via forestryengland.uk/westonbirt:

Bank Holiday Weekends plus:

Autumn – 01 Oct – 13 Nov

Christmas – 24 Dec – 02 Jan inclusive.

Carers of access visitors will receive free admission. Click here for our accessibility guide

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