Spring has sprung at Westonbirt, and there's no better place to be a member!
Spring showers bring May flowers, and Westonbirt is bursting at the seams with the vibrant promise of spring! As a valued member, you have exclusive access to a world of wonder unfolding right here in the arboretum. So lace up your walking shoes, pack a picnic basket (or grab a bite from The Kitchen), and get ready to be enchanted by all that Westonbirt has to offer this April.
For Nature Lovers:
Rhododendrons
Prepare to be dazzled by a breathtaking display of rhododendrons and azaleas. As these spring favourites erupt in a riot of pinks, purples, and fiery reds, Westonbirt transforms into a magical wonderland.
Cherry Glade
Witness the delicate beauty of our blossoming cherry trees. Take a leisurely stroll beneath a canopy of soft pink and white blooms, creating picture-perfect memories.
Spring Bulbs
Watch as daffodils, and anemones pop up in a dazzling display. These cheerful blooms signal the arrival of spring and are a true delight for the senses.
Family Fun:
Tuesday 09 - Thursday 11 April, 10:30am - 3:30pm
This Easter holiday, bring your little ones to the Learning Centre for a delightful spring-themed activity session! Discover fascinating facts about woodland animal babies, embark on a new life mini-trail challenge, and unleash your creativity with chick, butterfly, and frog crafts. Relax in our cozy reading corner and share wildlife books together. Suitable for children aged 3+. (Don't forget to explore the Nature Superheroes spring family trail in Silkwood too!)
Calling all budding wildlife enthusiasts! Come along to the Silk Wood Barn and uncover the secrets of Westonbirt's animal residents. Learn to identify tracks, signs, and sounds, and embark on a wildflower challenge to hone your plant identification skills. Suitable for children aged 3+.
Let your imagination run wild on the Gruffalo party trail – a perfect activity for little ones who love the popular children's book. Packs sold in the Westonbirt Shop. (Available throughout the season)
Guided walks:
Saturday 06 April, The Wood from the Trees
Our expert guide will show examples of the timber from particular trees and how they can be used for objects in everyday life.
Saturday 20 April, Behind the Scenes
This is a rare opportunity to understand the work of the propagation unit and see inside the tree team’s machinery shed, followed by a short walk around circular drive.
Saturday 04 May, Rhododendrons
Learn more about the origin of this plant while being treated to the wonderful display of Rhododendrons.
Let our visually impaired guides lead you through an immersive and interactive sensory experience that aims to shift your perception, enjoy the arboretum at a slower pace and explore the trees of Westonbirt through your nonvisual senses.
Walks occur at 11:30am every Friday of the month from April - September.
Discover the fascinating world of wild flowers and other flora at Westonbirt Arboretum and uncover the many uses, stories and traditions associated with each one.
Each walk starts at 10.30am and lasts around 2 hours. Walks will take visitors off main hard paths, across grassy rides, over the downs and into Silk Wood. They may not be suitable for visitors with any mobility concerns.
These short walks have been tailored to suit anyone who may benefit from some additional support in order to enjoy the arboretum. There are four short walks to try all under 1 mile in length. There are plenty of benches along each route should you wish to take a break and enjoy your beautiful surroundings.
The shuttle bus drives in a circle around The Downs from the Welcome Building to the central facilities area and back again. You can be picked up or dropped off at any of our shuttle bus benches to assist with your short walk.
Join our experienced and knowledgeable volunteers as they guide you through the Old Arboretum. Together you'll explore the best seasonal features of the Old Arboretum - and as the arboretum never stands still, no two walks are the same - perhaps you'll discover a hidden gem or your new favourite spot!
Walks occur daily at 11:00am & 2:00pm and are free after admission.
Did you know?
Bean pole week takes place every year in April!
Westonbirt Coppice Products are putting on displays for National Beanpole Week at the end of the Treetop Walkway, from the 01 to the 06 April 2024.
Throughout the week, at the coppice compound they will be displaying coppice products and crafts, including bean poles, pea sticks, Westonbirt made barbecue charcoal, garden furniture and many other crafts for your garden
On Friday & Saturday craft demonstrations will taking place at the coppice compound, with a large variety of products for sale and opportunities to learn about what they do.
Bean poles and pea sticks will be available to buy and collect 9:30am- 3:30pm on Friday 05 & Saturday 06 April from the woodworks carpark.
Unbeatable Member Activities All Month Long:
Nature Superheroes Spring Family Trail (March 7th - May 31st)
Search for Westonbirt's "Nature Superheroes" on this self-guided trail! Learn about amazing wildlife and their unique abilities as you complete fun activities and explore the arboretum. Collect your trail map from the Welcome Building and embark on a springtime adventure. Suitable for children aged 5 and over.
Members' Discount at the Westonbirt Shop
Stock up on beautiful plants, gardening essentials, and unique Westonbirt souvenirs. As a member, you'll receive a 10% discount on all your purchases, making your visit even more rewarding.
How Members Can Make the Most of Spring at Westonbirt:
Unbeatable Value
Your membership unlocks a world of benefits, including free entry throughout the year, discounts at the shop, and being part of Westonbirt’s story.
Supporting a Legacy
By being a member, you directly contribute to the preservation and development of Westonbirt, ensuring its beauty continues to inspire future generations.
Not yet a member? Join today from £42 a year...
With vibrant blooms, exciting family activities, and all the perks that come with your membership, April is the perfect time to explore, learn, and reconnect with nature's splendour.
Don't forget to capture picture-perfect memories of your spring adventure at Westonbirt. For a sneak peek at the beauty that awaits, visit Instagram for stunning photos and videos. @FriendsOfWestonbirt
