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Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

An Arboretum for Everyone

Posted: June 30, 2026 at 09:57 am

Nature does not have boundaries, and we believe experiencing it shouldn't either. Whether you’re navigating Silk Wood or seeking a quiet space in the Old Arboretum, we want your visit to be as seamless and comfortable as possible.

This summer, we are highlighting the resources and facilities available daily to help you, your friends, and your family experience Westonbirt on your own terms.

Overcoming Physical Barriers

Most of the main paths throughout the arboretum are flat and hard-surfaced, making it much easier to navigate whether you are on foot, pushing a buggy, or using wheels. If a long walk still feels daunting, you don't have to miss out on the summer canopy:

Mobility Scooters & Wheelchairs: We have a fleet of manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters available to borrow for free. You can book these in advance and collect them from the Welcome Building.

Our Shuttle Bus: Running regularly throughout the day, our shuttle bus links key areas of the site, keeping the walking distances manageable and your energy saved for the trees.

Supporting Sensory Needs

A bustling arboretum can sometimes feel overwhelming. To help visitors manage sensory input, we provide free resources to keep your day calm and focused.

Sensory Bags: Available to borrow for free from the Welcome Building, these packs include noise-reducing headphones, weighted blankets, visual aids, and fidget tools to help neurodivergent or sensory-sensitive visitors stay grounded while exploring.

The Visual Story Guide: Available to download before you travel, this online photographic guide walks you through exactly what to expect from the sights, sounds, and layouts of the arboretum, removing the anxiety of the unknown.

Experience Nature Differently

If you want to shift your perspective entirely, try our Sensing Nature Guided Walks. Led by our expert visually impaired guides, these immersive Friday sessions encourage you to step off the hard paths and explore nature through touch, scent, and sound. It is a slower, deliberate way to experience the seasonal shifts of the arboretum.

No matter how you choose to move through the trees, Westonbirt is here to help you do it comfortably.