It's autumn at Westonbirt and while its colours are ablaze, visitors are being encouraged to look beyond to 'observe the finer details of nature', too, with its brand-new art exhibition and Drawn to Nature Trail.
Free to explore and take part in with standard admission, the botanical exhibition and drawing trail invite guests to 'celebrate the season through art, observation and imagination', from now until Sunday 30 November 2025.
What is the new botanical art exhibition at Westonbirt Arboretum?
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Westonbirt’s sister collection, Bedgebury Pinetum and Forest, the Bedgebury Florilegium Society Exhibition features 18 'exquisite' illustrations of trees found in both arboreta, each telling a 'unique story' highlighting the beauty of the trees, along with the vital conservation work carried out at Bedgebury.
Not only 'visual masterpieces', the illustrations in the outdoor exhibition also serve as scientific records, continuing the centuries-old tradition of botanical art.
What is the Drawn to Nature Trail at Westonbirt Arboretum?
Inspired by the exhibition, visitors can explore their own artistic sides as they make their way around the new Drawn to Nature Trail.
Aimed at adults and older children, the trail is an opportunity to let 'nature’s fireworks spark your creativity', capturing the textures, shapes and stories of the trees around you through art.
Collecting a free charcoal, sketchbook and trail map on entry, each stop along the trail offers tips and inspiration to help you create your own artwork, 'whether you're a seasoned artist or just curious to try something new'.
How to get tickets to the botanical art exhibition and Drawn to Nature Trail at Westonbirt Arboretum?
Both the exhibition and participation in the trail are free with standard admission.
From Monday 29 September until Sunday 16 November 2025, standard weekday adult entry costs £17; £11.50 for young people aged 19 to 25; £5 for children aged 5 to 18; and free for under-fives.
To find out more about what's on offer at Westonbirt Arboretum this autumn, check out SoGlos's Gloucestershire Halloween guide or visit forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/autumn.
