Batsford Arboretum
With 60 acres to explore, it’s easy to lose yourself among the leafy glades, find a quiet spot to soak up the sunshine or marvel at the stunning views across the Evenlode Valley at Batsford Arboretum. Enjoy early colour from the snowdrops, spring-flowering bulbs and spectacular Japanese flowering cherries; escape the heat under the tree canopy in summer and prepare to be amazed by the outstanding autumn colour!
Batsford Arboretum dates back to the late 1800’s when the 1st Lord Redesdale – Grandfather to the infamous Mitford sisters – created a wild garden influenced by his time spent working for the foreign office in China and Japan. After a spell of neglect, Batsford was bought and rescued by the 2nd Lord Dulverton who turned it once again into a place of beauty, introducing collections of Birch, Maple, Oak, Ash, Lime, Magnolia, Mountain Ash, Pine, Fir, Spruce and many other rarities that still adorn the 60 acre site. Today, Batsford is home to the country’s largest private collection of trees and shrubs and has been run by the charitable trust, The Batsford Foundation, since 1983.
If visiting the arboretum inspires you, chances are you’ll find most of the plants available to buy at Batsford Garden Centre; a haven for garden and plant lovers, offering an unusual range of quality, affordable plants and sundries.
You’ll find delicious breakfasts, lunches, hot drinks and home-baked cakes from the Garden Terrace Café. Enjoy your meal on the wooden deck where you can soak up the sun – whilst the children burn off some energy in the play area – before browsing the gift shop or paying a visit to the resident Woodturner.
Batsford run a number of events throughout the year – including themed children’s hunts and photography workshops.
If you love exploring in the great outdoors, you’ll love Batsford Arboretum! Open daily, dogs welcome on a short lead.