Hotels near the Westonbirt Arboretum

Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury, contains one of the finest collections of trees and shrubs in the world. With 18,000 trees set in 600 acres of landscaped grounds, it merits a visit any time of year.

Wandering where you fancy along 17 miles of trails, which take in some of the tallest, oldest and rarest trees and shrubs in the land, there are plenty of visual wonders to appreciate. During spring, you can't miss the magnificent displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and the wild flowers of Silkwood. In summer you can recline in a leafy glade or stroll the Lime Walk to take in the fluorescent greens of the leaves.

But autumn is arguably when the place comes into its own. Fabulous oranges, reds and golds appear around every corner and the trees are at their most beautiful. Be sure to go near dusk, when the fading light catches the colours best. That said, a turn in the park on a frosty winter day, especially in the snow, is also recommended - then the brightly-coloured stems of cherries, birches and dogwoods take centre stage. Especially atmospheric is the Christmas Season, when fairy lights drape the branches of the trees every night, creating a mesmerising spectacle.

The Arboretum's amenities include a Visitor Centre, a Plant Centre, a Country Gift Shop and a Courtyard Cafe.