Last week, thanks to the generosity of our Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum (FOWA) members, we were able to help fund transport for a very special wellbeing day at Westonbirt Arboretum. The session, run by the Learning Team in partnership with Carers Support Centre, brought together local carers for four hours of nature connection, creativity, and respite.
At the Silkwood Community Planting Project, groups come together to volunteer their time, planting and caring for trees. But it’s also a chance to slow down, and grow deeper connections with nature. Since April, one particular group, Swindon Mind, has become frequent visitors to the project, participating in a series of monthly Wellbeing in Nature workshops. A group of adults supported by the charity have been introduced to the benefits of spending time in nature to promote mental wellbeing.
As the festive season arrives, the sweet aroma of roasting chestnuts is a familiar winter treat. Our tree of the month, the Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa), is a naturalised species thought to have been introduced to Britain by the Romans. Mature trees boast majestic trunks with spiralling fissures, glossy serrated leaves, and spring flowers that support pollinators. With a warming climate, sweet chestnuts may become an increasingly resilient part of Britain’s woodland future. Discover how Westonbirt cares for these remarkable trees and their role in shaping tomorrow’s landscapes.
As December settles in and the first frosts sparkle across the arboretum, Westonbirt transforms into a festive wonderland. Winter berries add splashes of colour, while evergreens take centre stage. Behind the scenes, the Forestry England elves have been hard at work crafting a magical Christmas Trail for you to enjoy. Celebrate the season and make the most of your membership this month there’s much to discover!...
Essential repairs are being carried out on The Kitchen restaurant roof this winter, which means some changes to dining at Westonbirt.
As the Silk Wood Community Planting Project Team (SWCPPT) enter the final planting season of the project, they are excited to introduce a new technique that will shape the way they plant trees and create resilient woodlands.
As November arrives, Westonbirt Arboretum continues to glow with rich autumn colour. Enjoy the last of the fiery foliage on guided walks, join creative workshops, and take part in learning events before the magic of Christmas at Westonbirt begins. Celebrate the season and make the most of your membership this month.
Tree of the Month: Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis) This month’s native tree is the wild service tree, an indicator of ancient woodlands and one of the UK’s rarest natives. Known as chequers, its autumn crimson-bronze leaves and edible fruit tell stories of traditional brewing, remedies, and music. Discover how Westonbirt is helping protect this remarkable species.
The shop is brimming with autumnal treasures this October! From Halloween delights to cosy seasonal accessories, our friendly team has carefully curated something special for everyone. The best part - every purchase helps support the beautiful Westonbirt Arboretum.
As October unfolds, Westonbirt Arboretum bursts into autumn colour. Members can enjoy unlimited entry, guided and discovery walks, hands-on workshops, family trails, and special events. Capture the season and make the most of your membership this vibrant month.
As autumn colours sweep through the arboretum, we’re celebrating the shuttle bus’s very first season. Discover how this new service has transformed visits for families and those with mobility challenges, and find out when it will return after a well-earned winter rest.
As autumn settles over Silk Wood, the modest Field Maple, Britain’s only native maple, takes the spotlight. Its golden leaves light up the paths as dramatically as exotic maples elsewhere. Learn more about this humble native, another one of the newly planted species by our community project in Silk Wood.
Westonbirt’s new play area now features a community-designed weather vane, unveiled on 26th September. Winning designer Natalie Chambers drew inspiration from her children exploring nature. Runner-up Lauren Metcalfe and highly commended Hartley, aged 6, are also celebrated. Click to find out more.
As the days shorten and the leaves begin their magnificent transformation, September is the perfect time to visit Westonbirt and take full advantage of your membership benefits. With a stunning array of activities, from tranquil walks to hands-on workshops, there's a unique experience waiting for you around every corner.
We’re very excited about a plethora of new books on trees, just published in the past few weeks. Every purchase you make helps support the arboretum, so you can expand your library while helping to maintain Westonbirt's world-class tree collection.