It’s playtime at Westonbirt, a natural playground like no other!

We’re never done playing. That delightful childhood memory recalling when we could do the things we are told not to: to run and roll in the grass, climb trees and get stuck in the mud!

According to one study, 87% of people who regularly played outside as kids valued nature as adults and went on to say they still believed taking care of the environment should be a priority.

There’s a simple cause for this passion — kids learn to love nature through their own experiences with the natural world. Listening to birds sing from the trees. Catching falling leaves and dandelion seeds. Witnessing sunsets, spotting flowers and exploring.

Playing in a park or forest gives children a feeling of freedom they rarely experience in other settings, even with adults keeping a watchful eye out. They can attempt activities and tasks that are impossible indoors, like “Can I balance across this tree trunk?” or “Can I climb this tree?” Children can have the chance to explore and experiment, without sensing constant parental supervision. Outdoor freedom allows a child to invent new games with friends, try new things and learn their boundaries and capabilities. As children, the confidence we develop through these discoveries helps us as we learn and grow.

At Westonbirt, The National Arboretum this summer, discover a range of things to do that offer a perfect blend of playful adventure for every member of the family. Everyone is invited to let their imagination run wild, using their senses as they explore and connect with nature surrounding them.

There is a whole programme of play activity and discovery days lined up for you and the children at Westonbirt this summer, each packed with fun activities, all free after paying admission to the arboretum.

Ideal for older children and adults (big kids), make your way to the Tree Top Walkway to ‘Escape Time from the Arboretum’. Will you be able to escape from the Silk Wood time warp? This brand-new trail will have you pitting your wits against each other to solve each clue to crack the final puzzle and get you back home to reality. Trail available until late September.

Don’t miss ‘Green Games’ the new family summer trail, available until 4 September, suitable for children from 5-years old. As you explore, look out for eight favourite outdoor games that invite you to play together by testing your imagination and your memory. Try to beat your opponents and improve your aim!

Head over to the Gruffalo Party Trail: The much-loved Gruffalo turns 25 this year, and until late summer at Westonbirt what better way to celebrate than a big party trail? As part of the adventure, families will be encouraged to work together to search for missing party items while enjoying fun and games along the trail. From 23 July to 16 September you can also have Olympic Gruffalo fun! Embark on a quest to find hidden Gruffalo character signs, find the magic word and enjoy some sporty challenges as you go.

For nature-loving teenagers and adults of all ages you could also choose one of Westonbirt’s four guided walks and be sure to see some of the arboretum’s most beautiful places, discover their hidden secrets and then shelter or picnic in the shade of the beautiful tree collections.

Childhood memories evoked through play help us become informed, compassionate adults. By knowing the value of natural outdoor spaces, we’re more motivated to preserve them. All of Westonbirt’s summer activities will fill you and your children with joy as you explore one of the world’s most stunning natural playgrounds.

Summer entry to Westonbirt Arboretum starts from £12 for adults, £4 for children over five years of age, free for children under five, and £10.50 for discounted entry. Membership with The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum costs £45 for one adult and £85 for two adults, offering unlimited entry for a year, with up to four of your children or grandchildren.