A matter of life & death

The trail explores ecological cycles, conservation efforts, and the remarkable biodiversity you'll encounter throughout this exceptional place.

Westonbirt itself houses one of the world's most important tree collections, expertly managed by Forestry England. You can easily spend several hours wandering through the varied landscapes of Silk Wood and the formally designed Old Arboretum sections, where you'll find over 15,000 trees from every corner of the globe. The well-maintained paths are perfect for gentle exploration, and there's a distinctive treetop walkway that gives you views impossible to achieve from ground level. If you prefer a slower pace, you'll find plenty of quiet corners where you can simply sit and watch the natural world unfold.

The Arboretum dates back to the mid-19th century, when Robert Holford established it. What started then has grown into a living museum, a global centre for tree research, and a genuine hub for conservation work. The "A matter of life & death" experience deepens your understanding of why all this work matters.

Getting here is straightforward, and Westonbirt sits close to Tetbury and Malmesbury, both appealing Cotswold towns. You could easily combine your visit with a meal or explore their independent shops.