Autumn is one of the best times to visit Westonbirt Arboretum, with a multitude of flame-coloured leaves providing a spectacular display. Located near Tetbury, in Gloucestershire, the 600-acre estate features almost 18,000 trees and shrubs with about 3,700 types, including some of the tallest, oldest and rarest in the UK.

A giant redwood standing at 150ft and a ring of trees thought to be 2,000 years old are just some of the attractions, along with many species listed as endangered or even extinct in the wild.

The story began when Robert Holford, the Victorian owner of Westonbirt House, decided to create a country estate, including landscaped gardens and an arboretum, around his residence, moving the village of Westonbirt and diverting the road in the process!

More interested in the beauty of plants than in their scientific value, Holford had different trees and shrubs laid out to form the most picturesque landscape, and it is thought that he also financed expeditions by 'plant-hunters' of the era to bring back exotic species from around the world.

His son, Sir George Holford, was later instrumental in developing the estate, introducing trees like the Japanese maple, responsible for providing much of today's autumn colour, and expanding the arboretum across the valley.

However, over the following years, as the estate was split up (with the mansion sold to become a school) and ownership passed to other family members, the arboretum suffered through lack of maintenance. In 1956, Westonbirt was bought by the Forestry Commission, restored to its former glory and opened to the public for the first time. Today it is recognised by English Heritage as a Grade I listed landscape, as well as being an important conservation area.

The Forestry Commission's aim is "to connect people and trees to improve the quality of life", and with this in mind Westonbirt is open all-year round - allowing visitors to appreciate the changing seasons. From mid-November, entry to the arboretum is free, and free guided walks can be arranged at weekends until the end of October.

Family activities, educational opportunities, craft workshops and concerts take place regularly, alongside seasonal events such as the Illuminated Trail on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings in December. To order a What's On leaflet call 01666 880147, or visit www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt where you can also find more information and directions.

Westonbirt, the National Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire. GL8 8QS

General enquiries: 01666 880220