From letting children roam free in nature to catching up with friends amongst the foliage, there are plenty of reasons to visit Westonbirt Arboretum, all year round.
And with unlimited entry for the whole family, exclusive discounts, a chance to learn about its important role in nature conservation and much more, becoming a member with Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum makes it easier to experience everything that Westonbirt has to offer.
SoGlos sits down with member Natascha Castell, to learn what Westonbirt means to her family and how, as regular visitors, membership gives them the flexibility to enjoy the arboretum to its fullest.
How did you first learn about Westonbirt?
We moved to the area back in 2018 and were looking for somewhere new to stretch our legs with our daughter, who was just a toddler at the time. Westonbirt Arboretum came up, so we thought we’d give it a go. We weren’t planning anything fancy – just a walk, really – but that visit ended up being the beginning of something much bigger for us.
That very first day, we came across the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum stand and thought, why not? It felt like a no-brainer – we knew straight away we’d be coming back regularly.
How often do you visit Westonbirt – and what is it that keeps you coming back?
At least once a month – probably more, if I’m honest. It’s our go-to, especially in the winter when everyone’s climbing the walls and you just need to get outside. We’ve made so many memories there: muddy walks, warm flasks of tea, the odd scraped knee... all part of the story.
It’s become a proper fixture in our family life. It's more than just a woodland to us now – it’s our place to press pause. Whether it’s blowing away the cobwebs after a busy week or having a catch-up with friends, it always seems to offer exactly what we need.
And it’s never the same twice – the changing seasons mean each visit feels fresh. Even the paths we’ve walked a hundred times surprise us, which is part of the magic.
What do your children enjoy most about it?
The play areas are brilliant, of course – but honestly, they’re just as happy making their own fun under the trees. We’ve had countless impromptu scavenger hunts – giant leaves, twisty sticks, funny-looking pinecones. That sense of freedom is so special. It’s the kind of place where they can properly let loose, explore and just be themselves.
And it’s not just about running around – it’s sparked a real curiosity in them. They notice things, ask questions, want to learn. You can’t really ask for more than that.
What do you value about your membership?
For us, the biggest thing is the flexibility. We can pop in for a quick hour after school or stay the whole day if we’ve got time to linger. It makes it feel like an extension of home in a way – a place that’s just ‘there’ for us, whenever we need it.
I often come on my own too, just for some headspace. Even when my youngest was a baby, I’d walk laps with the buggy while he stared up at the canopy. It’s always felt like a space that grows with us – as a family and as individuals.
Would you recommend Westonbirt to other families?
Absolutely. Westonbirt is more than just a lovely place to spend time – it’s somewhere that’s shaped the way our children connect with the outdoors. They’ve learned to love nature here, to notice the small things, to be curious.
It’s also just good for the soul. Whether you’re two or seventy-two, there’s something about being among those trees that just feels right.
What do you wish more people knew about Westonbirt?
It might sound silly, but for the first couple of years, we just thought of it as a really nice place to walk. I had no idea about the scale of the conservation work or the community projects happening behind the scenes. It was only after joining as a member and learning more through The Friends that I started to realise how much of that is supported by people like us.
It completely changed how I think about our membership. We’re not just getting access to a beautiful place—we’re helping look after it, and everything it stands for. That feels pretty special.
Tell us a bit about your connection to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum.
I actually work as a finance assistant, so numbers are my thing – but I never expected to feel so personally invested in a landscape! Being part of The Friends made me realise how much goes on beyond the trees – supporting scientific research, conservation, education and helping more people access the arboretum, especially those who might otherwise struggle to.
It’s amazing to think that simply choosing to be a member helps all that happen.
What are your favourite spots at Westonbirt?
We’re very fond of the Treetop Walkway – it’s a hit with everyone. There’s something about seeing the canopy from that angle that makes you stop and take it all in. And Silk Wood is a favourite too, especially in autumn. The colours are just unreal.
But honestly, it’s not about the landmarks. It’s the feel of the place. The light filtering through, the smell of damp leaves, the hush in the air. It’s like nowhere else.
Annual membership options start from as little as £32 a year. For more information about becoming a member, visit fowa.org.uk/join-support/membership/become-a-member.
