Westonbirt - Hawkesbury Upton

SEE WESTONBIRT'S TREES IN A NEW LIGHT
Westonbirt Arboretum's Enchanted Christmas illuminated trail, 25 November - 18 December

The spectacular Enchanted Christmas event will return to Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, managed by the Forestry Commission, this November and December.

Alongside exploring this year's new illuminated route through the trees, visitors can buy gifts and decorations in the Forest Shop and enjoy warming festive fare.

Families will also be able to enjoy a new winter wonderland in the education centre. Amongst a snowy setting, children can meet Westonbirt's green Father Christmas and make festive crafts with the arboretum's learning team.

For over ten years Westonbirt, The National Arboretum has thrilled winter visitors with the Enchanted Christmas illuminated trail.

The one mile trail highlights the striking structures of Westonbirt's trees in winter. A new route through the trees is created each year to take in different specimens, paths and vistas in the tree collection.

The illuminated trail is accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, both of which can be booked for free in advance by calling 01666 881218.

Westonbirt's Enchanted Christmas takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 25 November to 18 December, from 5 to 8.30pm, with the last entry at 7.15pm.

Admission is adults £9, concessions £8 and children £5. Discounted entry is available for pre-booked groups over 10 people and Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum members receive half price entry on Fridays.

Advance tickets can be booked online from 1 October at www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt-christmas



1.   Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is part of the Forestry Commission estate and is renowned worldwide for its tree and shrub collection. Home to the National Japanese Maple (Acer) collection, The National Arboretum covers 243 hectares (600 acres) and contains 16,000 specimens. Visitor numbers are 350,000 a year, with a membership of over 26,000. Westonbirt Arboretum was established in the 1850s by wealthy landowner Robert Holford, and later developed by his son George Holford.  Unlike many arboretums, Westonbirt is laid out according to aesthetic appeal rather than scientific or geographical criteria. Westonbirt's website is www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt.

2.   The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Further information at www.forestry.gov.uk



3.   The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum was formed in 1985. The charity's objects are to support The National Arboretum in promoting public understanding of the crucial role of trees to the environment and society. It is funded by membership receipts from over 26,000 members, other fundraising, and the use of the Great Oak Hall for events and activities. More information at www.fowa.org.uk