With the kids in Bristol: Westonbirt Arboretum

Filled with one of the finest tree collections in the world, within a stunning Grade I listed landscape, it’s impossible not to feel refreshed and rejuvenated once you arrive at Westonbirt Arboretum. This picturesque piece of heaven is situated in Gloucestershire, about three miles from Tetbury, and is the perfect place to take family, friends – and your dog.

Arriving with my husband, seven-year-old daughter and her friend, it was lovely to hear a collective “wow” as we first went through the entrance. In front of us were sprawling fields with different path options, which were clearly signposted. We decided to take a walk to the children’s playground area first – very conveniently situated next to a cafe so us adults could sit down and have a cup of tea whilst the little ones ran themselves ragged.

Westonbirt Arboretum by Paul Groom

With spring now springing, despite the weather being still on the damp side, new colours had emerged on the dry day that we happened to be at this gorgeous outdoor area. My daughter and her friend squealed with delight as they noted the blossoming pink flowers on a bush opposite the little gift shop, and also decided to count the pine cones that they could see on the ground. It made me extremely satisfied as a parent to think that my daughter was away from technology and at one with nature – as children should indeed be as often as possible.

My husband and I both felt an instant calm being at the arboretum – with the stresses of modern working life, it’s easy to feel lost, but within minutes of being at Westonbirt, we both truly felt at peace. Places like this are good for your soul, your health and especially the mind; I could have stayed there for days.

Westonbirt Arboretum by Paul Box

After wandering for a while, we took a walk to the 13-metre high STIHL Treetop Walkway, which offered absolutely spectacular views across the arboretum and took our collective breath away. My daughter and her friend kept stopping on the bridge to take it all in, and my husband was quite the shutterbug with his camera as he wanted to capture the magical sights. This had to be my favourite part of Westonbirt Arboretum, and, according to the people in the Welcome Building, it is a hit with every single person who visits this attraction.

We then went for a lengthy walk to take in the sight of the trees, adopting a leisurely pace that saw the two little ones run ahead of us with glee. My husband developed a habit of stopping and reading every information plaque along the way (he loves his trees!) while I just enjoyed being in the moment and filling my lungs with fresh air.

Mya and Honey at Westonbirt Arboretum

We spent an easy four hours at Westonbirt Arboretum and yet we still didn’t see all of it; you can spend an entire day there and not get around to every corner. That is what makes this place so special – you can visit time and time again and still find new parts during every single trip. Surprises are always in store with each new season (spring highlights include carpets of wildflower in Silk Wood and seasonal trails full of spring greens and scented blooms) and activities are constantly updated and revised.

As a family, we will be going back in the summer and also in the autumn – we just can’t wait to see the colours change, and to breathe in the natural aromas and feel the ever-present tranquillity in this lovely part of the world.

Admission prices are £10 for adults and £4 for children between March and November 2018, with discounts available for people arriving by bicycle or public transport. Children under five go free. Find out more at Westonbirt Arboretum.