Winter weekends at The Weir Garden

Foliage covered in frost bordering a view across the river wye and the frost fields in the background — Discover winter at The Weir Garden | © National Trust Image/Natasha Roberts

Get the whole family outdoors and discover winter at The Weir Garden, with frosty parkland walks, festive craft activities, a children’s winter wildlife trail, and sweeping views over the Wye Valley.

In 2023, The Weir Garden is extending its opening into the winter months, so you and your family can explore the riverside gardens and parkland during the festive season. See the Weir in a new light as it is transformed by dustings of frost and bare branches, opening the views out to the distant horizon.

Walking in winter

The new parkland walk at The Weir Garden is the perfect place to get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and walk your four-legged friend this winter. Pop on your wellies, wrap up warm and follow the 1-mile way-marked walk through the parkland, exploring the rich history of the wider estate.

Dogs are welcome at The Weir Garden, but must be kept on leads and under close control at all times to protect livestock and important wildlife.

A large oak tree covered in snow on an open snowy feild — Explore the new parkland walk this winter | © National Trust Images/Eleanor Dobson

Winter wildlife

For keen wildlife watchers, winter is a great time to explore the garden. Waterfowl plumage is at its finest this time of year, especially mallard drakes, with their striking green and purple feathers. Other, less common waterfowl are also on the river this time of year, such as pintail, goosander and goldeneye. In the garden, rooks roost together in the treetops for warmth and safety and the drumming of a male woodpecker trying to impress a mate echoes around the garden.

Rabbits and squirrels will use the garden to feed and sleep in and otters may use the boathouse for their midnight snacks.

Children's trail

The Weir Garden is waking up after winter, so join us this February for some seasonal flower spotting along our children’s half-term trail. Pick up your trail pack from the welcome kiosk and head into the garden, finding all 8 flower facts and completing the activities as you go.

This trail will be running from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February. Trails cost £3 per person and include a bag, colouring sheet, colouring pencils, and a prize.