Top 10 Things to do at Westonbirt Arboretum this Autumn

This autumn you are invited to let nature’s fireworks spark your creativity at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, as you celebrate the season through art, observation, and imagination.

With over 200 hectares to explore and more than 2,500 species of trees, Westonbirt is a dream for walkers, families, and anyone with a camera in hand. It’s no wonder the arboretum has been named one of Forestry England’s Top 10 Instagram Gems for capturing autumn at its very best. 

Things to do this Autumn…

The Stick Man Trail (Ends 15 September)

This beloved interactive family trail invites children (especially ages 3–9) to join Stick Man on his whimsical quest to return to his family tree. You’ll follow the trail through the Old Arboretum, an enchanting, dog-free zone completing playful, nature-inspired activities and collecting adventure stamps along the way. At the end, you can even take a keepsake photo with Stick Man in the family tree.

Drawn to Nature Autumn Trail (5 Sept – 30 Nov)

An elegant, gentle ramble invites visitors to sketch nature’s wonders. Inspired by botanical illustrations, you’ll receive a free sketchbook, charcoal, and trail map at the Welcome Building. The one-mile route through the Old Arboretum encourages slowing down, observing textures, forms, and the stories each tree tells.

The Art of Autumn Family Trail (5 Sept – 30 Nov)

Family-friendly and hands-on, this trail complements the Drawn to Nature experience with creativity for all ages. Discover the art in leaf peeping, tree dressing, and nature-inspired drawing. Each trail panel offers a mini activity plus science snippets. Packs include sketchbook, crayons, and a trail map free after admission.

Spectacular Seeds Discovery Day (Sat 20 Sept, 10:30 am–3:30 pm)

How about a botanical treat for children aged 3+. At the Great Oak Hall, families can explore seed art, plant seed bombs, and embark on a scavenger hunt, all designed to kindle curiosity and wonder.

Autumn Coppice Market (Sat 25 & Sun 26 Oct, 10 am–4 pm)

Set amid the treetop walkway and Silk Wood, this market showcases traditional coppicing skills by resident artisans. Browse and observe crafts being made, this is a beautiful nod to forest stewardship and heritage.

Autumn Walks. A Free Family Event (Mon 27 & Fri 31 Oct, two sessions)

Through autumnal science, games, and discovery, families are invited to practical exploration. Morning sessions for younger children (3–8 years) include exploring signs of autumn and winter survival tactics; afternoon (9–14 years) sessions offer hands-on experiments and crafts like creating autumn bookmarks. Booking is essential via the Learning team.

Autumn’s Wonders. Creative Drop-Ins (Tue 28 – Thu 30 Oct, 10:30 am–3:30 pm)

Perfect for half-term, discover the science of autumn colour, craft leaf crowns or mobiles, and join a colour-finding challenge. Drop-in and free after admission.

Guided Walks Through the Old Arboretum (Daily, 11:00 am & 2:00 pm)

A beautifully traditional experience led by passionate volunteers, each walk reveals seasonal highlights and hidden corners. No two walks are the same. Always expect something new.

Bedgebury Florilegium Society Exhibition (This autumn, until 30 Nov)

An outdoor celebration of botanical illustration and the centenary of Bedgebury Pinetum. A wonderful cultural compliment to autumn's natural spectacle.

Autumn 2025 is primed for peak brilliance. Expect late-September leaf change that blooms through October into mid-November. Especially radiant in Westonbirt’s famed maples.

Westonbirt Arboretum holds the national collection for maples and autumn is the time to see them in all their breathtaking glory! Visit https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/autumn