Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Discover spring at Westonbirt Arboretum: Guided walks, family fun and a Zog trail!

Posted: March 31, 2023 at 10:24 am Author: Jo Murray

April at Westonbirt offers a breathtaking display of nature's beauty. It’s the perfect time to visit the arboretum and immerse yourself in the stunning landscape that features over 15,000 trees and shrubs from around the world.

One of the highlights of a visit is the magnificent cherry blossom display. The delicate pink flowers are a sight to behold, and the tranquil surroundings of the arboretum make it the perfect place to appreciate them fully. Magnolias and rhododendrons also bloom during this month, adding to the magical atmosphere of the gardens.

Spring at Westonbirt ArboretumSpring at Westonbirt Arboretum

Guided walks

Apart from enjoying the natural beauty of the arboretum, you could also take part in various activities and events suitable for all ages. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and significance of the arboretum, with plenty of opportunities to pause and admire the scenery along the way. This month sees the return of the wildflower, sensing nature and discovery walks.

Wildflower Walks

Discover the fascinating world of wildflowers and other flora at the arboretum and uncover the many uses, stories and traditions associated with each one.

When: First Tuesday of the month at 10.30am.

Find out more about Wildflower walks...

Guided walks at Westonbirt Arboretum

Sensing Nature Walks

Be led through an immersive and interactive sensory experience that aims to shift your perception, enjoy the arboretum at a slower pace and explore the trees through your nonvisual senses.

When: Every second and fourth Friday of the month at 10.30am.

Find out more about Sensing Nature walks...

Guided walks at Westonbirt Arboretum

Discovery Walks

Take the path less travelled and delve a little deeper into our captivating trees. Each walk is unique and the theme remains a tantalizing mystery until the very moment you begin.

When: Every Saturday at 10.30am.

Find out more about Discovery walks...

Guided walks at Westonbirt Arboretum

Easter family activities

Perfect Partners

Have you ever wondered about the tiny creatures that help spring flowers thrive? Discover the fascinating world of pollinators that visit the flowers in the arboretum. Learn about their important role in the ecosystem and how you can help protect them. This is a great opportunity to explore the secrets of nature during spring and deepen your understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

When:

Find out more about the Perfect Partners family activity...

Spring bee

Feathered Friends

Your little bird lover won't want to miss the Feathered Friends event. Get up close and personal with our native birds and learn about their habits and habitats. You'll also get to make your own bird feeders that you can take home to attract birds to your garden. This is an excellent chance to connect with nature and make a positive impact on the environment by providing food and shelter for birds. So, come and join in for a fun-filled experience of learning, creativity, and nature appreciation.

When: Tuesday 11 - Friday 14 April between 10.30am - 3.30pm

Find out more about the Feathered Friends family activity...

Children exploring Westonbirt Arboretum

Zog trail

Exploring Westonbirt’s Zog trail is a fantastic adventure for families with young children. Based on the popular children's book by Julia Donaldson, this trail takes you on an interactive journey through the story's characters and settings. As you walk along the trail, you'll encounter various obstacles and challenges that are designed to engage children and stimulate their imagination. From crawling through tunnels to solving puzzles and playing games, the Zog trail is a fun and exciting way to explore nature while immersing yourself in a beloved children's story. Whether you're a fan of the book or just looking for a unique and engaging outdoor activity, experiencing the Zog trail is a great option for a family day out. Find out more about the Zog trail...

Zog trail

Plus you’ll find a wonderland of Zog items in the Westonbirt Shop, where shelves are adorned with Zog books that ignite imaginations, and Zog teddies that bring joy and fond memories of your day out at the arboretum.

Discover Zog items in the Westonbirt Shop

The Great Oak Hall

Come visit our beautiful Great Oak Hall this spring, now with a fresh new look! Take a peek inside and explore our community book exchange and Leaves of Life sculptures in the foyer. And don't miss the brand new panels in the hall, showcasing the incredible achievements our supporters have helped us reach over our 37-year history at Westonbirt.

Celebrating your support over The Friends' historyCelebrating your support over The Friends' history

We’re throwing open the doors this Easter weekend so pop in and soak up the beauty of this incredible building.

Book exchange

Participating in our community book exchange is a wonderful way to broaden your literary horizons while also connecting with like-minded individuals. By swapping books, you can discover new authors and genres that you may have never encountered before. It's a simple yet powerful way to foster a love of reading and deepen your understanding of the world around you.

Book exchange

In addition to the benefits of discovering new books, participating in our book exchange supports a meaningful cause. We accept donations that go towards protecting trees and enriching lives. By taking part, not only are you expanding your own literary world, but you are also contributing to a larger effort to make the world a better place through education and environmental stewardship. Find out more about our community book exchange...

In conclusion, April is an excellent time to visit Westonbirt, to witness the breathtaking beauty of spring in full bloom. The cherry blossoms, magnolias, and rhododendrons create a magical and serene environment that is perfect for reconnecting with nature. Whether you choose to stroll through the gardens, take part in activities, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, your visit this April is bound to be an unforgettable experience.