The National Pinetum
The National Pinetum at Bedgebury is the finest collection of conifers on one site in the world. The 300 acre Pinetum contains nearly 10,000 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.
Each season offers different experiences and delights:
- 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 Nation Arboretum at Westonbirt together form the National Arboreta, managed by the Forestry Commission.
Friends of Bedgebury Pinetum
Please click here for an Application Form
There are two levels of Friends membership:
Standard Membership - £50
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.
Gold Membership - £56 (+ £8 each additional member)
Gold membership provides unlimited parking as above 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.
Exclusive use of the Friends room with natural history library and free hot and cold drinks.
Free walks run by staff members.
Discounts at some events and walks
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.
Exclusive use of the Friends room with natural history library and free hot and cold drinks.
Free walks run by staff members.
Discounts at some events and walks
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."
