The National Pinetum at Bedgebury is the finest collection of conifers on one site in the world. The 300 acre Pinetum contains over 12,000 trees and shrubs (including 1,800 different species) from across five continents, many of them rare and endangered. As well as playing an important scientific role in international conservation, the National Pinetum is a beautiful and tranquil place to walk, picnic and enjoy nature away from the stresses of everyday life.
Audio Trail
Why not discover the Pinetum for yourself by downloading our audio trail (ZIP, 12.4MB)? Right click on the link above and choose "Save Target As." (It's also available on MP3 players which you can hire from the Visitor Centre)
A Pinetum for all seasons
Each season offers different experiences and pleasures:
- Winter - a light dusting of snow or a sharp frost transforms the Pinetum into a winter wonderland.
- Spring - a kaleidoscope of azaleas, daffodils, rhododendrons and bluebells.
- Summer - the many giant specimens cast deep shadows and dappled shade, creating a cool oasis in the warmth of the sun.
-
Autumn - the fiery leaves and brilliant berries are in sharp contrast to the background of rich green conifers.
The National Pinetum at Bedgebury and the National Arboretum at Westonbirt together form the National Arboreta, managed by the Forestry Commission.
Friends of Bedgebury Pinetum
Please click here for an Application Form
Standard Membership - £56
Unlimited parking at the Bedgebury Visitor Centre and attendance at FoBP general meetings. One parking permit is issued with up to two cars or motor cycles. Only one vehicle at a time can use the permit. plus:
-
A membership card for each member giving free entry to other gardens and arboreta (including Kew, RHS Wisley HDRA Organic Gardens)
-
Copies of the FoBP Journal.
-
Free walks run by staff members.
-
A membership card for each member giving free entry to other gardens and arboreta (including Kew, RHS Wisley HDRA Organic Gardens)
Copies of the FoBP Journal.
Free walks run by staff members.
An American perspective
Writing in Conifer Quarterly (the journal of the American Conifer Society) after a recent visit to the National Pinetum, American conifer expert Tom Cox said;
"I knew this was a vast collection … but I was not mentally prepared to take in the immensity and age of the plantings. The Bedgebury website lays claim to 'the world's finest collection of conifers' and, having visited many gardens throughout the world, I would agree. It was a thrill to see so many rare specimens in one place."
