Learn new skills, meet new people and help restore this unique woodland.

We run monthly volunteer conservation days, using hand tools to restore the arboretum. If you enjoy working in the fresh air in stunning woodland surroundings, this is for you.

Work could include clearing bracken and bramble, chopping firewood, opening up pathways and cutting back overgrowth, and more. Volunteers are involved in deciding what work should be done and how we evolve the project.

A light lunch and hot drinks are provided. We also run a minibus from Bristol for those who do not have their own transport.

Why volunteer? Our volunteers put it best:

I love being in the woods and the combination of physical exertion and natural mindfulness leaves me physically exhausted and mentally rejuvenated

I really enjoy the volunteering days because of the friendly environment and the fact that we are doing good work for the community. Being outdoors is great and being able to see so many different types of tree in one place is really special. It feels rewarding to clear the bramble and see a new space emerge and let the plant life have light and space to grow.

A volunteer attending as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award

All volunteer days are 10.30am until 4.00pm or when it gets dark, whichever is earlier.

Please review our guide on volunteering and Covid-19 before attending.

Dates for 2023

• 22 January
• 19 February
• 19 March
• 16 April
• 21 May
• 18 June
• 16 July
• 13 August
• 10 September
• 15 October
• 19 November
• 17 December

What skills do I need?

To volunteer with our working parties, you need enthusiasm, a good work ethic, and willingness to work as part of a team; no previous experience is necessary as long as you have the right attitude.

How do I apply?

If you think this is for you we invite you to attend one of our volunteer days. Simply sign up to our volunteer email and we will send you details of the next volunteer day. Due to capacity restrictions, there may be a waiting list, so best to get in touch quickly to secure a space.

What training will I get?

We provide training for all volunteers on safe use of hand tools and tool care.

Other information

Please note that the arboretum is overgrown, and so currently not suitable for wheelchairs. The ground can be very wet and there are trip hazards across the site, contact us if you think this might prohibit you from volunteering and we can discuss how to find the right role for you.

We particularly welcome adults who have been long-term unemployed for any reason including living with addiction, mental health challenges, disability or any other barrier to finding work.

We invite volunteers from all backgrounds to apply, see our Equal Opportunities Policy.