Westonbirt Arboretum is preparing for one of its most spectacular times of year, with its famous Japanese maples set to provide a dazzling display of autumn colour alongside trails, family activities and seasonal events.
From 7 September, Westonbirt will explore the theme of The Magic of Maples, inviting visitors to experience the internationally renowned tree collection in a new way. At the heart of the programme is the Perfectly Imperfect trail in Silk Wood, an immersive route inspired by nine Japanese aesthetic concepts.
Designed for all ages, the trail encourages visitors to slow down, explore with curiosity and use all their senses as they discover the changing colours of the arboretum. Families can seek out favourite trees and special spaces among the collection, taking time to enjoy everything from the smallest details to the sweeping autumn landscape.
Westonbirt has also partnered with the British Haiku Society to celebrate the natural world through poetry. Earlier this year, poets from around the world were invited to capture the magic of maples in haiku, with the winning entries now forming an outdoor exhibition at the arboretum this autumn.
A programme of free family events, included with admission, will run throughout September and October.
Get behind the wheel at Meet the Machines
Meet the Machines on Saturday 19 September, from 10.30am-3.30pm, offers children the chance to get close to some of the vehicles used to care for Westonbirt’s trees, including the opportunity to sit inside a large tractor or mower.
Celebrate the magic of maples
On Saturday 17 October, Celebration of Maples will offer a discovery day for children featuring creative poetry and printing inspired by Westonbirt’s colourful maple collection.
Explore Westonbirt on a sensory walk
Sensory Activity Walks on Monday 26 and Friday 30 October, from 10.30am-3.30pm, will combine maple-themed guided walks with storytelling, encouraging children to explore the arboretum through their senses.
Half-term fun with Maple Magic
During half-term, Maple Magic, from Tuesday 27 to Thursday 29 October, from 10.30am-3.30pm, will encourage families to go maple leaf hunting before having a go at making their own leaf lantern.
Step into the world of Room on the Broom
There are more woodland adventures for younger visitors too. Families exploring Westonbirt may encounter the Gruffalo and the Gruffalo’s Child, while the interactive Room on the Broom trail combines themed activities, forest facts and hands-on fun.
Room on the Broom trail packs cost £4 and can be picked up from Westonbirt’s Welcome Building or Shop, with everything needed to help bring the popular story to life.
Discover Westonbirt on a guided walk
Visitors who want to find out more about Westonbirt and its internationally important collection can also join one of three free guided walks offered each day, exploring the arboretum’s history and some of its autumn highlights.
Autumn is one of the busiest seasons at Westonbirt and visitors are strongly advised to pre-book during October and November to guarantee admission. Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum members can enjoy the programme of free events without paying admission.
Whether it is an energetic family day out, a hunt for colourful leaves or simply a chance to enjoy some time among the trees, Westonbirt is offering plenty of ways to experience the magic of autumn this year.
For more information and to plan a visit, go to forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/autumn.
