What's on in November
As spooky season comes to a close, keen leaf peepers (lovers of autumn foliage) can still enjoy the arboretum’s best side with a fantastic display of autumnal hues. Reds, oranges and yellows abound as the deep chlorophyll greens of summer fade, and for those that enjoy a guided walk the “magic of maples” walk on Saturday 02 November will help you make the most of it. Don’t forget, Westonbirt Arboretum is now part of the Robin Bus route, Gloucestershire’s bookable bus service, making your visits even easier.
The last of the autumn foliage won’t span the whole month, but members won’t be disappointed even after it is done. Crunchy leaves underfoot, crisp fresh air, pre-hibernation wildlife, and an astounding display of fungi are all on offer throughout November. This month’s discovery walks focus on the last of the autumn colour (02 November), fruits and berries (09 November), fungi (16 November) and bark (23 November), with the very last day of the month kicking off the series on midwinter and a study of evergreen trees (30 November). As a member of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum, you have unlimited access to these invigorating events with your free entry all year round.
Member Tuesdays are back from 19 November
As if you needed any extra excuse, a leisurely hot chocolate or coffee with your bestie will add a little pep to your walk. From 19 November, Member Tuesdays is back, allowing you to bring a relative for free every week. Together you can take in the arboretum, inspire them to join as a member for year-round visits together, and finish with a stroll around our shop to sort those tricky Christmas presents.
Right now, the shop is filled to the rafters with ethical, independent and local brands. From luxury hot chocolate from Harth to warming blankets from Tweedmill and wheat bags from The Wheat Bag Company, they’ve got winter fully loaded. Then Christmas decorations, socks, Jellycat characters, much-loved children’s books, classic Christmas treats and not-to-mention advent candles and calendars, can help tick off your nice list. Don’t forget to show your membership card to enjoy 10% off when you spend over £10.
Autumn Colours: until 17 November
Enjoy the last of the autumn foliage until around 17 November. Don’t forget, this is a natural phenomenon that changes every day and is deeply affected by windy weather, so we advise visiting sooner rather than later. Pre-booking is advised.
Introducing the new Forest Walkies Trail: opens 22 November
In partnership with Aardman and celebrating the much-loved character of Gromit, a new dog-focussed activity trail is launching in Silk Wood. Jam packed with bond-boosting challenges to do with your dog, it’s sure to get tails wagging. What’s more the activity pack (available to purchase in the shop) comes with a bandana for your pooch, ensuring they look woof-tastic on the go.
Christmas at Westonbirt
Bringing a brand-new take on arboretum, this illuminated light trail comes from the producers of Christmas at Kew and Blenheim palace. Tickets must be purchased separately, but your membership with The Friends entitles you to free event parking for one car, worth £8. What’s more, keep your eyes peeled for your member email, with a chance to win a family ticket for two adults and two children.
Don’t forget!
Now is the perfect time to give the gift of Westonbirt for Christmas, helping you share your love of the arboretum with friends and family. The final date for guaranteed Christmas delivery of membership is 12 December 2024. Gift a membership
Family events
Tots & Twigs Forest School
Suitable for ages 2-4 during term time, every Monday, Thursday and Friday Morning at 10.15am to 11.45am and every Friday afternoon from 12.30pm to 2pm. £62 for eight weeks with membership.
Wild Westonbirt
Suitable for 14-18-year olds, leave the well-trodden paths and explore the wilder side of the arboretum. Free with membership. Saturday 19 October from 10am to 4pm.
Trees of the Future
Amazing seeds, discovery collection, sowing and crafts – help grow the trees for the future. Free with membership. Friday 1 November, 10.30am to 3.30pm.
Home educated learning event
For home educated children, aged 7-11. Using the arboretum’s magnificent surroundings, students will have the opportunity to engage creatively with the natural setting. Each event has a different theme and learning activity for the children to immerse themselves in. Next event: Thursday 7 November 10.30am to 12pm
Guided walks, tours and trails
Daily Guided Walks
Explore the seasonal highlights of the arboretum. Free with membership. Daily at 11am and 2pm.
Discovery Walk: Magic of Maples
Learn about the number of different species of maple, where they come from, and why there are so many colours. Saturday 2 November at 10.30am
Discovery Walk: Fruits and Berries
A chance to taste some of the fruits & berries from our trees and shrubs in the Old Arboretum. Saturday 9 November at 10.30am
Discovery Walk: Fungi
There are many different types of fungi which appear at this time of year, some beautiful, some no so pretty! Saturday 16 November at 10.30am
Discovery Walk: Focus on Bark
A chance to get close and look at the bark, what does it do. why are there so many types and colours. Saturday 23 November at 10.30am
Discovery Walk: Midwinter Magic
How evergreen plants have always been used to help us through the darkest time of the year. Plus, a quick look at Christmas trees. Saturday 30 November at 10.30am and again on Saturday 7 December at 10.30am
Workshops
Nordic Walking with the Nordic Nomad
Join the Nordic Nomad for weekly Nordic Walking sessions. A fun chance to socialise with other Nordic Walkers, exploring all that Westonbirt has to offer. Every Tuesday and Wednesday
Sketching your environment
Many of us aspire to keep a regular sketchbook, journal or diary but it's deceptively hard to get started, let alone stick to. This workshop is an opportunity to put your inhibitions aside to start your sketchbook in a forest classroom. Saturday 9 November from 10am to 4pm. £90
Songways Singing Workshop
Sing in the magnificent Great Oak Hall. Songs to celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Saturday 9 November from 10am to 3pm. £38 or £51 with concert ticket
Rolling Harmony Concert
Enjoy a special concert in the Great Oak Hall by Rolling Harmony, performing at Westonbirt for the first time. Rolling Harmony will perform songs by English and American composers rooted in traditional harmony singing. Saturday 9 November from 4pm to 5pm. £13
Willow Sculpture Workshop
Spend a relaxing day crafting and weaving in a small group of like minded people - absolute beginners are very welcome and all the materials will be provided. Design and build a sculpture for your garden, a bird feeder, an abstract sculpture or willow animal! It’s completely up to you. Friday 22 November from 10am to 4pm. Repeated dates every month. £95
