Westonbirt Arboretum Guide & Reviews (2026)
Tucked in the heart of the Cotswolds, Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is a tree lover's paradise with over 15,000 specimens across 600 acres. Whether you are chasing the fiery autumn colours or the delicate spring blossoms, understanding the Westonbirt Arboretum ticket prices, knowing that parking is included, and planning your route will help you make the most of this peaceful day out.
Westonbirt Arboretum at a Glance
Essential Visit Information
Time Needed
2 - 4 Hours
Established
1828
Best For
Nature & Seasonal Colours
Westonbirt Arboretum Address & Location
Getting here
Address & Navigation
Set in glorious Gloucestershire countryside just south of Tetbury. For sat nav, use GL8 8QS.
Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QS
Venue enquiries: +44 300 067 4890
A Brief History of Westonbirt Arboretum
From private estate to national treasure
Victorian Beginnings
Established in 1828 by Robert Holford, who planted thousands of rare trees collected from expeditions around the world on his family estate.
Expansion & Legacy
His son George continued the work, creating the famous Acer Glade and Silk Wood. The collection now holds over 2,500 species.
National Status
Now managed by Forestry England, it remains one of the most important temperate tree collections on the planet.
Is Westonbirt Arboretum Expensive?
Trav's Wallet Score
TRAV’S WALLET SCORE:
(Note: For the 'How Expensive' rating, the lower the number, the cheaper it is!)
Squawk! For the size of the place and the sheer beauty on offer, this is fantastic value - especially with parking included and miles of paths to explore.
Pricing & Entry Tickets
Standard admission rates
Typical Admission Rates (from 1 March 2026)
Pre-booking is strongly recommended, especially at weekends and during autumn. Prices vary by day and season.
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Discounts and Offers
Ways to save on your visit
Friends Membership
Friends of Westonbirt membership from £32 a year gives unlimited visits for the member plus up to four children - brilliant value if you plan to return.
Public Transport Discount
Show your bus or train ticket on the day for discounted entry. The Robin Bus or Cotswolds Discoverer Pass works perfectly.
Concessions
Students, 19-25 year olds and those on Universal Credit or Pension Credit qualify for reduced rates with proof.
Who Should Visit?
Is it right for your itinerary?
WHO WILL LOVE IT
WHO MIGHT HATE IT
Visiting With Kids
Is the arboretum family-friendly?
Family Trails
Seasonal trails like the Spring Family Trail or Room on the Broom keep little ones engaged while learning about nature.
Play Area
A dedicated natural play area near the Welcome Building lets children climb and explore safely.
Easy Paths
Wide, mostly flat paths in the main areas are perfect for buggies and scooters.
What to See
Highlights of the arboretum
Acer Glade
The world-famous collection of Japanese maples that turns into a blaze of red and gold every autumn - the first time I saw it properly the colours took my breath away.
Old Arboretum
Victorian plantings with champion trees and the peaceful Great Lawn - the dappled light under the cedars feels almost cathedral-like.
Silk Wood
Dog-friendly woodland with wilder paths, bluebells in spring and a more natural feel - perfect for a longer wander.
Peak Crowd Heatmap
When to expect the biggest queues
🟢 Early Mornings
Peaceful Strolling. Gates open at 9am - arriving then gives you the paths almost to yourself before the coach groups arrive.
🔴 Autumn Weekends
High Energy. Midday on weekends in late September to mid-November is busiest around the Acer Glade.
🟡 Late Afternoons
A Gentle Buzz. After 3pm the crowds thin and the golden light is perfect for photos.
Trav’s Insider Hack
“Squawk! Pre-book your slot online and head straight to the Acer Glade around 10am on a weekday in autumn - the light filters through the leaves beautifully and you will have the best views before the main crowds arrive.”
How Close Is It? (Distance Matrix)
Walking times from key spots within the arboretum
🌳 Welcome Building to Old Arboretum
🚶 5 mins
(Gentle paved path past the lawns)
🍁 Acer Glade
🚶 12 mins
(From Welcome Building through the main collections)
🌲 Silk Wood entrance
🚶 15 mins
(Pleasant walk past the Downs area)
Best Areas to Stay Near Westonbirt Arboretum
Top neighbourhoods for venue access
Tetbury
Just a 5-minute drive away. Charming market town with lovely pubs and boutique hotels - perfect for a relaxed stay.
Malmesbury
About 15 minutes drive. Historic abbey town with good choice of accommodation and easy access to the M4.
Cirencester
Roughly 25 minutes away. Larger town with more hotel options and handy for exploring the wider Cotswolds.
Parking Information
Where to leave your car
Car Park Details
Parking is included with your admission ticket. The large main car park is right by the Welcome Building with plenty of spaces including 21 accessible bays. No height restrictions for most motorhomes.
Coach parking and drop-off available. Blue Badge spaces near the entrance. Arrive early at peak times as it can fill up.
Other Attractions in the Cotswolds
Explore more sights nearby
Traveller Reviews
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Quick answers for your visit
