Bluebell Season at Tortworth Arboretum

Spring transforms the arboretum into the landscape into a sea of vibrant blue and purple hues  as bluebells appear, nestled underneath spectacular trees from around the globe.

Did you know that bluebells are associated with ancient woodland? The abundance of bluebells at Tortworth Forest Centre is an indication that this woodland has been around for centuries. The land, once overtaken by bramble and bracken, has been carefully restored since 2014 by a dedicated team of volunteers. Their efforts have uncovered an old arena and steps once used by donkeys to transport produce from the kitchen gardens to the main house, as well as a stunning collection of over 600 native, exotic, and veteran trees.

The work now focuses on replanting and maintenance. Volunteers have created pathways, cleared around trees and plants to help them thrive, and improved labelling and signage. Some areas remain delightfully wild, a feature we aim to preserve as it’s part of the arboretum’s unique charm and benefits local wildlife.

After your walk, or whenever you need a break, follow the inviting scent of woodsmoke back to the Roundhouse, where a warm drink awaits.

Tickets and information

Our 2026 visitor days are supported by funding from the National Lottery Awards for All Environment Grant. Tickets are now available on a sliding scale donation basis.

Here’s how we see each suggested donation:
• Free ticket – for those for whom any payment would cause genuine hardship. This is for people struggling with everyday costs such as food, rent, bills, or transport.
• £5 for those who can meet daily costs but contributing a small amount would be a noticeable sacrifice. This is suitable for people with limited disposable income or who occasionally need to plan carefully to cover essentials.
• £8 for those comfortably meeting daily costs with some disposable income. Paying this amount might require minor sacrifices, but it is manageable and allows you to support the arboretum fairly.
• £10 for those with savings, stable income, or additional financial resources. Choosing this tier is a way to actively support the restoration and wellbeing programme and help subsidise access for others.

If booking multiple tickets, you can mix and match tiers to suit each person’s circumstances, so a family or group can attend comfortably without anyone facing hardship. For further information on each of the tiers to help you decide, please see this page.

By making a donation of any amount you support the arboretum restoration and our woodland wellbeing programme which helps people struggling with their mental health. Thank you for your generosity.

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• Last entry one hour before closing