Family-friendly things to do at Winkworth Arboretum

A blurred image of a young girl with one leg raised having kicked through leaves. — Get outdoors at Winkworth Arboretum | © John Miller

Come out and play at Winkworth Arboretum. Whether you’re joining in with outdoor activities, walking the dog or creating some wild art there’s plenty of fun to be had.

Planning your family visit

Natural play area with a fireman’s pole, rope tunnel and mini climbing wall.
Baby-changing facilities available
Thank you for not bringing your child's bike, scooter or ball games due to the steep slopes and open water on site.

The Nutcracker at Winkworth Aboretum

Sat 29 Nov - Sun 4 Jan

A promotional image for The Nutcracker at Winkworth Arboretum comprising a decorated Christmas tree, an old-fashioned clock, large nutcracker figure, a mouse and a ballerina featured in a snowy, stary night scene. — Enjoy the Nutcracker family trail at Winkworth | © Drew Designs

This Christmas, join a Nutcracker-themed walking trail at Winkworth Arboretum. Follow Clara's footsteps through the wintery woodlands uncovering scenes from the beloved story, meeting life-sized sculptures of the nutcrackers, and enjoying games along the way. Wrap up warm, bring your imagination, and let the magic of the Nutcracker guide your winter adventure.

There'll be winter warmers from the tea-room and the entire family can have a galloping great time on the vintage carousel.

More details about Christmas at Winkworth

All year round fun in the arboretum

Play area

Winkworth is a great outdoor space in which children can explore nature. Head over to our Tree Adventure area and climb, jump and scramble across our rope tunnel, bridges, mini climing wall and our brand new web walk. It’s built from wood and other natural materials and provides all the inspiration for a great time experiencing the outdoors.

Brass rubbings trail

Pick up our Unbe-leaf-able trail sheet from the kiosk and explore the arboretum in search of some our important trees, completing a brass rubbing as you identify each tree. (Subject to availability.)

'50 things to do before you’re 11¾' at Winkworth Arboretum

There are so many opportunities to experience connecting with nature at Winkworth. Why not start with some wild art? At the arboretum you’ll find nature’s materials on hand to start your creation. Or you could try tracking wild animal signs or making friends with a bug? Don’t let rain spoil your day either, as you can go welly wandering. We’ve got the best puddle jumping to be found for miles around.

Tea-room treats

All adventurers get hungry and thirsty, and Winkworth’s tea-room has a range of delicious treats for bold bug hunters and dedicated explorers. There are hot drinks to warm up from the winter chill, while in the summer there are cold drinks and ice creams to cool overheated adventurers. 

Exploring with your dog

A family day out isn’t complete without your canine companions. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome anywhere in the arboretum. They can sit with you in the large seating area outside the tea-room as well, where we offer a bowl of water so they can enjoy a relaxing drink.