Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Adventure awaits! Fun for all ages at Westonbirt this May

Posted: May 3, 2024 at 11:40 am Author: Jo Murray

Embrace the great outdoors at Westonbirt Arboretum, there's no better place to celebrate the season's beauty Whether you're a family seeking adventure, a nature enthusiast craving knowledge, or an artist yearning for inspiration, Westonbirt has something for everyone this May.

Free Family Fun for All Ages:

Camouflaged Creatures: Put your stealth skills to the test on Saturday 18 May! Learn about camouflage and create your own disguise while searching for hidden creatures.

Camouflaged insect

Minibeast Mimics: Explore the fascinating world of mimicry during the half-term week (28 - 30 May). Discover how creatures mimic others to survive and enjoy fun crafts and games.

Nature Superheroes Trail: Embark on a self-guided adventure to find nine nature superheroes hidden throughout the arboretum. Suitable for children aged 5 and over, this trail is a great way to explore and learn about the wonders of nature.

Children exploring nature

Gruffalo Party Trail: Celebrate the Gruffalo's 25th birthday with this interactive forest adventure! Find missing party items, complete activities, and learn about forest life. Packs are available to purchase from the Westonbirt Shop.

People walking with a Gruffalo Party Trail pack

Westonbirt Wellbeing Trail: Spending time amongst the trees and really noticing nature is scientifically proven to boost your mental and physical health. Follow the trail for a mindful walk through the arboretum that invites you to relax. Themed panels and a downloadable forest wellbeing journal offer additional ways to connect with the forest environment.

Explore the Arboretum with Guided Walks:

Daily Guided Walks: Join knowledgeable volunteers for a stroll through the Old Arboretum and discover the best seasonal features. These walks are perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed introduction to Westonbirt's treasures. (Daily at 11 AM & 2 PM)

Discovery Walks: Delve deeper into specific areas of the arboretum with themed walks held on the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month. Choose from topics like Rhododendrons, Beyond Ash Dieback, Medicinal Trees, and Silk Wood.

Sensing Nature Walks: Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience with visually impaired guides. Let them help you appreciate the arboretum through touch, sound, and smell. (Every Friday from April-September at 11:30 AM)

Wildflower Guided Walk: Uncover the captivating world of wildflowers with a guided walk on the first Tuesday of each month (April-September). Learn about the various uses, stories, and traditions associated with these beautiful plants.

Volunteer guide showing visitors wildflowers

Booking may be required for some guided walks, so check the Westonbirt website for details.

Unleash Your Creativity with Workshops:

Botanical Printmaking: Learn the art of creating botanical prints using leaves and flowers found in the arboretum. (04 May)

Hand-tied Bouquet Workshop: Craft a beautiful hand-tied bouquet using seasonal blooms with expert guidance. (08 May)

Make Space - Nature Collage Workshop: Explore collage techniques and create a nature-inspired artwork with local artist Gemma Pitman. (11 May)

Willow Sculpture Workshop: Weave and craft your own unique willow sculpture, perfect for your garden or as a gift. (Several dates throughout May)

Planning Garden Borders Workshops: Learn professional garden design techniques to create a stunning and functional outdoor space. (25 May)

Spoon Carving: Transform a tree branch into a beautiful wooden spoon using traditional carving techniques. (25 May)

Workshops require booking in advance, so secure your spot today!

Unmissable Events:

The ARB Show: Immerse yourself in the world of tree care at this major industry event featuring demonstrations, talks, and exhibitions. (17 & 18 May)

Arborist climbing a tree

Westonbirt 10K - sold out: Cheer on the runners and help them reach their 10K goals! (23 May)


Not yet a member? Become a Friend of Westonbirt Arboretum and enjoy exclusive benefits, including free entry, kids go free and a discount in the Westonbirt Shop! From £42 a year…

Westonbirt Arboretum offers a world of discovery waiting to be explored. So lace up your walking shoes and embrace spring at Westonbirt this May! For a full list of events, trails and workshops please see Forestry England’s website…