Less scroll, more stroll at Westonbirt this summer

In a world that moves at the speed of a notification, filled with endless scrolling and digital noise, switching off and stepping back feels almost defiant. Our phones rarely let us pause. This summer, Forestry England’s Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is offering the perfect alternative: a chance to switch off and tune in with nature instead.

Westonbirt Arboretum invites you to slow down and reconnect with the living world. Home to one of the finest tree collections on earth, the arboretum offers more than photo-perfect summer surroundings; it offers space to breathe, listen and appreciate trees. A unique chance to discover the positive power these gentle giants can have on our lives.

From 1 June until the end of August, Westonbirt’s summer theme, ‘In Tune With Nature’, comes to life through an immersive trail that winds through the arboretum. This trail, created for all ages, invites visitors to pause and be present – tuning in to birdsong, rustling leaves and dappled light, whilst discovering how time among trees can soothe the mind and lift the spirit.

Throughout summer there are plenty of free family events to enjoy at Westonbirt (included with admission), blending curiosity with creativity and fun:

‘Creature Conversations’: Saturday 20 June, 10.30am–3.30pm

Is it possible to talk to a woodpecker? This gentle day invites families to sit quietly among the trees, map the sounds of woodland wildlife and sharpen listening skills.

‘Nature’s Soundtrack’: Tuesday 4 – Thursday 6 August, 10.30am–3.30pm

Days of playful exploration, connecting with trees through sound creativity.

‘In Tune with Wellbeing’: Tuesday 11 – Thursday 13 August, 10.30am–3.30pm

Outdoor wellbeing walks with gentle yoga, designed for families to unwind together beneath the trees.

‘Wild About Bees’: Sunday 16 August, 10.30am–3.30pm

The chance to watch bees at work and discover the fascinating lives of free‑living honeybees.

‘Woodland Orchestra’: Tuesday 18 – Thursday 20 August, 10.30am–3.30pm

Children will create their own musical instruments using natural woodland materials.

‘Sensory Woodland Walks’: Tuesday 25 – Thursday 27 August, 10.30am–12.00pm and 1.30pm–3.00pm

Guided walks that venture off the beaten path, encouraging your young family to explore the arboretum through smell, touch, sound and sight.

Families can also embark on magical woodland adventures at Westonbirt with beloved characters from book and screen. If you venture into the deep dark wood you may bump into the Gruffalo, the Gruffalo's Child and don’t miss exploring the Room on the Broom trail, new to Westonbirt this year. This interactive family trail is packed with Room on the Broom themed activities, fascinating forest facts and plenty of hands-on fun. Don’t forget to pick up your trail pack, available from Westonbirt’s Shop for just £4. Each pack is filled with everything you need to bring the magic to life.

For explorers of every age, Westonbirt’s knowledgeable volunteer guides lead free daily guided walks at 11am and 2pm, sharing fascinating stories about the arboretum and its trees.

A highlight this summer takes place 18 July, with Westonbirt the launch venue for the Council for British Archaeology’s ‘Festival of Archaeology’, celebrating Archaeology and Nature. On this special day only, the arboretum will open its gates free of charge, welcoming everyone to explore the deep connections between landscape, history and human life. Booking is recommended to guarantee entry.

Whether you are seeking playful adventures with family or moments of stillness among the trees, Westonbirt is a summer sanctuary where the tiny details of the arboretum take centre stage.

Take a moment for yourself. The trees will take care of the rest.

For further details see forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/summer-westonbirt-arboretum