Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Family Fun & Flower Power

Posted: February 29, 2024 at 12:32 pm

As the days lengthen and a gentle warmth returns to the air, Westonbirt Arboretum awakens from its winter slumber, bursting with the vibrant hues of spring. Whether you're a keen gardener eager to witness the first blooms or a family seeking an adventure amidst nature, March at Westonbirt offers something for everyone.

For the Flower Enthusiast

Pink flowers blooming in the sun, showcasing their vibrant colours and delicate petals.

Old Arboretum Guided Walks:

Embark on a daily journey through the heart of Westonbirt, led by our knowledgeable volunteer guides. Discover fascinating stories behind the diverse plant collection and witness the early signs of spring. (Daily at 11:00 AM)

Discovery Walks:

Delve deeper into specific areas of the arboretum on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. In March we have two incredible walks to enjoy:

- Saturday 02 March, Beyond Ash Dieback

Take a closer look at the Silk Wood Community Planting Project following the devastation caused by ash dieback.

- Saturday 16 March, Silk Wood

A 90 minute walk on the paths less travelled in Silk Wood, and see the Wollemi pine planted by The King.

For the Whole Family

Two youngsters observing a sign amidst the trees.

Explore the Gruffalo Trail:

Immerse yourself in the magical world of the Gruffalo with our interactive trail! Follow the Gruffalo footprints and discover sculptures of your favourite characters from the Julia Donaldson book. As you explore the Gruffalo’s habitat, look out for magical creatures like the Fox, the Snake, and the Owl. This self-guided trail is a delightful way for families with young children to enjoy the beauty of Westonbirt and engage with the beloved story.

Let imaginations set sail at Exploratree:

For our youngest explorers, a world of adventure awaits at the Exploratree play area. This wooden wonderland features a giant ship complete with ladders and slides, a spider climbing frame, and balancing planks. It's the perfect spot for little ones to burn energy, unleash their creativity, and enjoy hours of imaginative play.

Located in the central area of the arboretum by the restaurant and shop, Exploratree is the ideal place for families with young children to unwind and have fun.

Westonbirt is for everyone

A woman walking and an older woman riding a scooter.

Accessibility for All:

Westonbirt Arboretum welcomes everyone to explore its natural beauty. If you or someone in your group requires a little extra assistance, we offer mobility scooters for free hire. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors of all abilities.

Discover the Wellbeing Trail:

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature and unwind on our dedicated Wellbeing Trail. This 1.8-mile, easy-to-walk route is suitable for buggies and mobility aids, making it accessible for everyone. As you meander through the trees, soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest, and allow the peacefulness of nature to wash over you.

Workshop highlights

Failsafe Garden Plants:

Learn how to create a vibrant and low-maintenance garden with our expert talk on Wednesday, March 20th. Gain valuable tips on choosing the right plants for your garden and ensuring their success. (Wed 20 Mar, 10am - 1pm)

Willow Sculpture Workshop:

Unleash your creativity and learn the art of willow weaving in this hands-on workshop. Create a unique and decorative piece to take home and cherish. (Sat 23 Mar, 10am - 4pm)

Uncover even more ways to connect with nature! Explore our full calendar of workshops and activities, from guided walks and family adventures to creative workshops and insightful talks. Click here to discover everything Westonbirt has to offer!

Looking Ahead to April

The Easter holidays bring a wealth of family fun to Westonbirt! Join us for themed activities and crafts throughout the week. Check out the Easter activities...

A father and son having fun outdoors

As a member of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum, you enjoy exclusive benefits like free entry all year round, a discount in the shop, and access to our partner gardens. Your continued support allows us to maintain this cherished green space for all to enjoy.

We look forward to welcoming you to Westonbirt this March and throughout the year!

Happy exploring!