📷 Photo by David P Howard · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
You're stepping into one of the world's most significant tree collections, managed by Forestry England, where thousands of species from across the globe have been brought together to create a living reference for arboreal diversity.
The arboretum divides into two distinct areas: the Old Arboretum features formally planted exotic species arranged for striking visual impact, while Silk Wood takes a more naturalistic approach, showcasing trees and shrubs native to Britain and the Northern Hemisphere.
The landscape offers something different depending on when you visit. Autumn brings spectacular displays of fiery foliage, while spring transforms everything with fresh greens and new growth. The Treetop Walkway is genuinely worth experiencing—it takes you high into the canopy for views you simply can't get from ground level.
Many of the remarkable species thriving here were brought back by plant hunters like Ernest Wilson, who travelled to remote corners of the world and returned with botanical treasures that eventually became established features of British gardens and collections. Their work from a century ago directly shaped what you're experiencing today.
Plan to spend several hours exploring properly. When you're done, the market towns of Tetbury and Malmesbury are just a short drive away, both offering good restaurants, cafes, and independent shops if you want to make a fuller day of it.
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Photos
C. Smith · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
T. Harris · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons