Nestled amidst the most wonderful of the rolling Cotswold hills near Moreton-in-Marsh and Bourton-on-the-Hill, is Batsford Arboretum. It is one of the absolute jewels in the crown that make up the Cotswolds.

 

 

With family visiting from Denmark who are avid naturalists and love all things trees, plants, bugs, and birds more than most, we knew there could be no better place to experience autumn in the Cotswolds than Batsford Arboretum.

As autumn had painted the arboretum in a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, the park had been transformed into a breathtaking spectacle, a true feast for the senses.

 

Fiery maples and acers

As we entered the arboretum, we were immediately struck by the sheer diversity of trees, each adorned in its finest autumnal attire. The fiery maples and acers against the blue sky, the golden elms tall and proud, and the towering oaks, their leaves now a rich bronze, exuded an air of wisdom and serenity.

 

 

As we wandered along the winding paths, the crisp autumn air filled with the symphony of rustling leaves and the occasional chirping of birds. The ground was carpeted in a soft layer of fallen leaves, creating a mesmerizing patchwork of textures and colours.

We were so lucky with the weather. It was cool but not cold, and the sun filtered through the canopy of trees, casting dancing shadows, adding to the magical atmosphere of this autumnal paradise. 

 

Gnarled trunks and twisted branches

Along our 2-mile walk through Batsford Arboretum, you see such a diverse range of fascinating trees.. the tallest trees we’ve ever seen, trees with gnarled trunks and twisted branches, trees with leaves in the brightest autumn colours, all whispering tales of centuries past. The delicate Japanese maples, their leaves adorned with intricate patterns, showcased nature’s artistry. And the towering pines, their needles evergreen amidst the blaze of autumn, stood as symbols of resilience and enduring beauty. It’s incredible… a walk we will never forget. 

 

 

But it was the sheer scale and grandeur of the arboretum that truly captivated us. The vast expanse of trees, stretching as far as the eye can see, creates a sense of awe and wonder… and it leaves you feeling a sense of peace and tranquillity. 

Batsford Arboretum is not just a collection of trees; it’s an experience for all the senses. It’s a place to wander and explore, to breathe in the fresh air and marvel at the wonders of nature. It’s a place to reconnect with oneself and find solace in the beauty of the changing seasons.

And, as we reluctantly left the arboretum behind, we carried with us a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. We had the most fantastic morning and can’t recommend a visit here enough.

 

 

Visit Batsford Arboretum

Batsford Arboretum is home to a unique collection of some of the world’s most beautiful and rare trees, shrubs and bamboos spread across 60 acres. Enjoy early colour from the snowdrops, followed by 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.

For more information on visiting and top buy tickets, see www.batsarb.co.uk.