📷 Photo by David Lally · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Just south of Tetbury, you'll find a dedicated arboretum that holds one of the world's most important tree collections.
Forestry England manages the site with considerable expertise, and its story begins in the mid-1800s when Robert Holford started assembling rare and exotic specimens here. Many of those original plantings are now fully mature trees of genuine significance.
You can easily spend a full day exploring the extensive grounds. Well-marked paths suit all fitness levels, ranging from gentle walks among Japanese maples and established oaks to more substantial routes through Silk Wood, where silver birches, conifers, and countless other species create a genuine sense of discovery. The Stihl Treetop Walkway offers a different perspective altogether—you get to experience the woodland from high above the forest floor. The site looks particularly striking during autumn when the foliage turns brilliant colours, though it's genuinely rewarding to visit at any time of year for a peaceful walk surrounded by remarkable trees.
On-site facilities include a visitor centre, café, and shop, so you can easily spend several hours here. If you're exploring the southern Cotswolds, it's conveniently positioned between Malmesbury and Cirencester, making it a natural addition to a day out in the region.
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Photos
D. Lee · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
C. Smith · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons