China

A major focus here is plants that explorers and plant hunters brought back from China over the centuries. As you walk the quiet paths, you'll come across spectacular maples, magnolias, and rhododendrons, many originally from Chinese forests and mountainous regions.

The trees and shrubs offer something different with each season, so it's worth returning throughout the year. Autumn transforms the grounds into a blaze of colour, while spring brings delicate flowers and fresh growth across the landscape. The arboretum was established in the early 19th century and has spent nearly two centuries building and maintaining these diverse botanical collections.

Plan for half a day or a full day if you're exploring the wider area. The nearby market towns of Tetbury and Malmesbury both have restaurants, cafes, and shops worth visiting once you've finished walking. What makes this place special is the genuine sense of calm rather than crowds, which means you can actually pause and notice the individual character of different plants without feeling hurried along. The space has a quality that allows you to properly take in what you're seeing, whether you're a keen gardener or simply enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by remarkable trees.