Westonbirt Woodworks
Have you ever wondered what happens to Westonbirt Arboretum’s trees at the end of their life?
The Woodworks
We think these magnificent specimens deserve to be celebrated, even when they’re no longer viable as living specimens. This is why we’re thrilled to have started converting the old cattle shed into a Wood Centre where our visitors can learn all about the journey of trees.
This space allows us to mill our own timber right here at the arboretum. Timber, furniture and handcrafted homewares are also available for sale to Westonbirt Arboretum visitors.
The sawmill shelter
One of two barn structures in the yard provides shelter to a sawmill. By purchasing a sawmill we've enabled the arboretum to mill its own timber, ensuring that magnificent specimens are utilised to their full potential.
The timber barn
The second of two barns provide somewhere that milled and dried timber can be stored, providing flexibility over when it is used throughout the year, whether that's in construction projects or craft workshops.
Roof restoration
The roof of the heritage cattle shed was restored to create a brand new covered craft demonstration area. Here local craftspeople showcase their skills, and the public are able to view exciting demonstrations.
Take a look as you walk over the STIHL Treetop Walkway.
The shop
The storage barn has become a woodcraft shop and gallery space, where you can purchase handcrafted wooden items or even Westonbirt timber for use in your own craft projects.
Take a woodworking course
Learn the art of old English chair making traditions at Westonbirt Arboretum by taking a woodworking course this year. You’ll be led by the talented Paul Hayden, a regular contributor to Good Woodworking Magazine, and his team of experienced craftsmen.
Thank you to all those who have donated to support this project. We are extremely grateful for the contributions from the following donors which has made a substantial difference to the ongoing development of Westonbirt Arboretum:
The Worshipful Company of Joiners and Ceilers Charitable Trust
The Summerfield Charitable Trust
Sarah Baillie
Sue Bradley Jones
Mary and David Broad
Jennifer Buckland
Beryl Clark
David Collier
Jean Day
Mary Ede
Ninette Flowerdew
Doreen Gardner
Michael Garside
Barry Goldring
Edward Greves
Roland and Avril Harley
Christopher Haslam
Margaret Headen
Maureen Horscroft
Brian Norton
Derrick and Marilyn Jeans
Nina Matthews
Kenneth Mill
Stephen and Ann Montgomery
Hugh Purkess
Pippa Smith
Sue Symonds
Tim Trask
Peter Walker
Janet Wilson
Paul Young