Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is a large tree garden in the Cotswolds, home to thousands of different trees and shrubs from around the world, including several national tree collections. Families can walk the woodland trails, climb up into the canopy on the treetop walkway, and look out for the Gruffalo trail characters among the trees. There is a play area for younger children, a café and a shop, and picnic areas for a packed lunch. The seasonal colour in autumn draws many visitors, and an illuminated trail runs in the winter months. Dogs are welcome on leads in one of the woods, though not in the old arboretum. The site also runs guided walks and school visits, so it suits a relaxed family day, a learning trip or a longer outing with older children.