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Explore the Botanical Wonders of Westonbirt, The National Arboretum in Gloucestershire
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is a renowned botanical collection located in Gloucestershire, England. Established nearly 200 years ago by Victorian horticulturalist Robert Holford, Westonbirt has grown into a vital center for research and conservation. The arboretum boasts an impressive collection of 15,000 specimens and 2,500 species of trees from around the world, making it one of the most significant plant collections globally. Visitors can explore five national tree collections and numerous rare species, including nearly all native British trees found in Silk Wood.
Convenient Access to Westonbirt via Major Routes and Public Transport
Accessibility to Westonbirt is convenient via major routes such as the M4 and M5 motorways. Visitors can also reach the arboretum by bus or train or arrive by bicycle. Parking is available for motorhomes or caravans with no height or width restrictions, and coach parking includes a drop-off spot near the Welcome Building. Personal Assistants accompanying visitors with accessibility needs can enter free of charge without needing to provide proof of concession.
Diverse Visitor Activities at Westonbirt Arboretum
The visitor experience at Westonbirt is enriched by various activities and amenities. Open daily from 9 am (except on Christmas Day), the arboretum features the STIHL Tree Top Walkway for an elevated journey through the tree canopy, a café serving hot and cold refreshments, and a shop selling souvenirs and treats. Interactive tree maps and guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers help visitors navigate the extensive collections.
Educational Programs for All Ages at Westonbirt Arboretum
Westonbirt also offers special programs such as 'Wild Westonbirt' for young adults aged 14-18 to encourage exploration beyond well-trodden paths, and learning sessions throughout the year for home-educated children aged 7-11 that utilize the arboretum’s surroundings for educational purposes. Additionally, events like the 'Tree Guardians' trail educate visitors on tree care and protection efforts both locally and globally.
Westonbirt's Commitment to Global Tree Conservation
A key aspect of Westonbirt's mission is its commitment to global tree conservation efforts. The arboretum holds around 100 threatened tree species and actively works on regenerating woodlands with local community involvement while combating pests and diseases affecting its trees. As part of its sustainability initiatives aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, Westonbirt has built new facilities like a Quarantine House to protect new plantings from disease threats and a Community Shelter for visitor engagement activities.
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Located in the Cotswolds, this is a stunning and remarkable place for people to see, explore and enjoy a landscape world-renowned for its trees.
With 15,000 trees, including five national tree collections and seasonal activities for everyone to enjoy, Westonbirt offers a new experience with every visit. There’s always something new to discover.
Originally planted by the Holford family during the heyday of Victorian plant hunting, today Westonbirt Arboretum’s 600 acres contains one of the finest tree collections in world.
The landscape was laid out aesthetically rather than in a botanical order, meaning this setting is truly one of the most beautiful tree gardens to be found anywhere in the world.
Visitors can take a journey up into the canopy on the STIHL Tree Top Walkway, go Gruffalo spotting in the woodland, take the dogs for a walk in Silk Wood or take a guided walk to explore hidden secrets, whilst enjoying vibrant colours all year round. There is also a restaurant and café to enjoy a tasty treat and the Westonbirt Shop, ideal for gifts.