The Art of Autumn: A Family Trail at Westonbirt Arboretum

As the leaves begin their slow transformation into a blaze of oranges, crimsons, golds, and browns, Westonbirt Arboretum pulls out all the stops to celebrate this magical season. The Art of Autumn: Family Trail invites children and adults alike to step outside, explore, and find art and inspiration in every rustling leaf and twist of branch.

Running from 5 September to 30 November, this free family trail is more than just a walk through the woods. It’s a sensory adventure, inspired by nature, earlier Westonbirt trails like Drawn to Nature, and exhibitions such as the Bedgebury Florilegium.

Set in the Old Arboretum—a peaceful, dog-free area—the trail follows a gentle 1-mile loop, designed to be accessible for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, prams, and buggies.

What You’ll Find

• A free trail pack to collect at the Welcome Building, including a sketchbook, trail map, and crayon.
• A series of interactive panels along the route offering seasonal science facts, artistic prompts, and nature-inspired activities.
• Plenty of opportunities for creative expression: leaf rubbings, sketching patterns, tree-dressing, and admiring the spectacular autumn colours.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

1. Nature’s Autumn Spectacle
Westonbirt is one of the best places in the UK to experience the changing colours of autumn. With over 600 acres of tree collections, it’s a feast for the eyes.

2. Creativity Meets Nature
The trail encourages observation and creativity—drawing, journaling, or simply pausing to notice textures, colours, and patterns in nature.

3. Family Friendly & Accessible
Whether you're pushing a buggy or exploring with little ones, the trail is welcoming, safe, and easy to navigate.

4. Perfect Timing
With colours peaking from mid-September through October, it’s a great time to visit more than once to witness the season in full swing.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing—autumn can be unpredictable!
• Bring snacks or a picnic, as there are plenty of beautiful spots to rest and enjoy the view.
• Let kids take their time with the trail activities—sketch, gather leaves, or pause to explore textures up close.
• Arrive early on weekends during peak colour season to avoid crowds.

Whether you’re a family looking for a wholesome weekend outing, an art lover inspired by the natural world, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of autumn, the Art of Autumn Family Trail offers something special. It’s a beautiful way to connect with nature, spend time together, and embrace the season’s quiet magic.

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