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. You can also expect some festive decorations around the welcome kiosk, along with some fun Christmas activities to get involved with in November and December.

Using fir cones and conkers to make a collage — What will you discover this winter at The Weir Garden? | © National Trust Images/Jennie Woodcock

Christmas craft activity

In the run up to Christmas, head to the glasshouse to create your very own Christmas gonk decoration. For those who don’t know, a gonk is a gnome-like character that originates from Nordic mythology, who has a Santa-like hat and a white bushy beard that have made them a popular Christmas icon in recent years.

Using the natural materials and craft supplies in the glasshouse, you can create your own festive gonk ornament that is certain to spread some holiday cheer in your home! This is a self-led activity and is free to take part in, however donations are welcome.

Wreath making

Join us in the glasshouse to create a handmade Christmas wreath to bring nature into your home this festive season. Materials and fresh greenery from the estate will be provided.

Dates and prices coming soon!

“Tales of the riverbank: Preparing for winter” children’s trail

Our riverbank friends all have different ways of getting ready for colder months, but this year is Harper the Hedgehogs first winter and she need your help to figure out what to do until spring. Follow the trail around the garden and find out what the other riverbank animals get up to during the winter, and help Harper decide how to spend her winter at The Weir Garden.

This trail will be running from 18 November to 7 January. Trails cost £3 per person and include a bag, colouring sheet, colouring pencils, and a prize.

Woman pushing a buggy with small children looking at a trail sheet — Take part in our winter trail around the gardens | © National Trust Images / Annapurna Mellor

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.

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.