Westonbirt – The National Arboretum, which is managed by the Forestry Commission, has turned into a winter wonderland following the heaviest snow fall much of Gloucestershire has seen in decades.
The snow fall has generated a photographer’s paradise at The National Arboretum. The 600 acre site received up to six inches of snow in places, creating magical scenes and a tranquil environment.
Simon Toomer, Director of Westonbirt Arboretum commented:
“When there is snow fall at Westonbirt, the place has a breath taking beauty to it. The contours of the landscape were designed by Robert Holford in the 1850s to enable all the trees and plants to be shown at their best. The snow really emphasizes the shapes and views which he intended.”
Westonbirt develops season trails, one in the Old Arboretum and one in Silk Wood, for visitors to explore the beautiful surroundings.
The conifers provide a sculptured backdrop to the deciduous trees and smaller shrubs. Unexpected colour can be found during the winter from flaming red barked dogwood, scarlet willows or witch hazels, which bloom spidery yellow flowers mid winter.
Wildlife is also in abundance during winter at Westonbirt, as the resident bird species are joined by a variety of northern migrants such as fieldfare, redwing, siskins and bramblings. But don’t forget to look out for the old favourite, the robin.
Admission to Westonbirt – The National Arboretum from 2 January to 28 February is: Adults £6, Concessions £5, Children £2 (under 5s go free). For more information pick up a seasonal trail leaflet at the Great Oak Hall or visit www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt.
NOTES TO EDITORS
• Image to be credited to to be credited to Hugh Angus at Westonbirt Arboretum
• Westonbirt - The National Arboretum is managed by the Forestry Commission and renowned world-wide for its tree and shrub collection. It contains nearly 16,000 specimens, including almost half of the woody plants known to grow in the world's temperate climate zone. It covers 600 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Its importance is recognised by English Heritage's Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historical Interest as a Grade 1 registered Landscape. Visitor numbers are 360,000 a year, with a membership of over 23,000.
• Westonbirt Arboretum was established in the 1850s by wealthy landowner Robert Holford, and later developed by his son George Holford. Much of Westonbirt's renowned autumn colour is credited to Sir George's plantings of Japanese maples between 1875 and 1900, many of which are still alive today. Unlike many arboreta, Westonbirt is laid out according to aesthetic appeal rather than scientific or geographical criteria, and the Holfords' legacy is open for all to enjoy - a beautiful, relaxing and unique day out among some of the tallest, oldest and rarest trees and shrubs in Britain.
• Westonbirt is home to the National Japanese Maple (Acer) Collection, with over 350 different types in the collection. The Forestry Commission opened Westonbirt Arboretum to the public in 1961, and in 1966 a new Acer Glade was established alongside the original one planted by Robert and George Holford in 1875.
• 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. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands. Further information can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk
MEDIA CONTACT
For further information, please contact Katrina Podlewska, Communications Officer, Westonbirt The National Arboretum, on 01666 881 207, or email: katrina.podlewska@forestry.gsi.gov.uk