Hearts of oak

It's the sort of place where hours disappear without notice as you wander through two distinct areas: the Old Arboretum with its formal landscaping and impressive specimen trees, and Silk Wood, which feels more like ancient, wild woodland with its own diverse collection of species.

The Stihl Treetop Walkway is genuinely worth experiencing, lifting you high into the canopy for a perspective you simply cannot achieve from ground level. The site offers something different in every season—spring brings vibrant blooms, summer provides cool shade beneath the leaves, and autumn is renowned for its spectacular colour display. The collection has roots going back to the mid-19th century, when the Holford family began developing it, and it remains an important centre for both conservation and research today.

Miles of accessible paths wind through the grounds, suitable for different abilities and ages, making it genuinely family-friendly. There's plenty of space for children to roam and explore at their own pace. When you need a break, the on-site café and shop provide a comfortable place to rest and refuel before continuing your visit.