A (dog) walk in the park - Westonbirt Arboretum

I mentioned in my blog post about Batsford Arboretum that we were members of Westonbirt Arboretum, but I have somehow overlooked a blog post about our trips there. We used to go there before we got Barney and walked around the Old Arboretum, usually in Autumn when the trees were changing colour. We've even been to a concert there to see Spandau Ballet. Nowadays though, we take Barney for a walk in the Silk Wood, as dogs aren't allowed in the Old Arboretum. 

As we're members we don't have to pay when we visit, but normal admission charges are £10 for adults and £4 for children (£7 and £3 respectively if you visit between December and February). You'll find more details on the Westonbirt website. 

Westonbirt is in between the M4 and M5, about 45 minutes from Bristol and Swindon. Silk Wood is an ancient, semi-natural woodland and whilst it doesn't have the same formal planting as the Old Arborteum it is a still a lovely place for a walk around, whatever the season. 

There is a restaurant and cafe, as well as a shop and toilets on the site. I have to admit we've not tried to take Barney inside, one of us normally ventures in to collect tea and cake whilst the other waits outside, so if you wouldn't be happy with this, please check before visiting. 

There are plenty of hard paths for humans and grassy areas for hounds

Quieter areas if you want to run free

And benches in case you fancy a cuddle

Oh, and did I mention the Autumn colours?!

I love a walk around Westonbirt and a cup of tea in the cafe afterwards. If you visit, I'd love to hear what you think.