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Queenswood Arboretum: A Living Woodland Heritage in Herefordshire

Explore ancient woodlands and exotic trees at Queenswood Arboretum, a family-friendly nature reserve rich in wildlife and seasonal beauty.

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Queenswood Arboretum is a 47-acre country park and nature reserve near Leominster, Herefordshire, renowned for its extensive collection of over 1,200 rare and exotic trees. Set within ancient woodland designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, it offers scenic walking trails, a family-friendly Gruffalo Trail, a café, visitor centre, and rich wildlife habitats including rare dormice and diverse bird species.

A brief summary to Queenswood Arboretum

  • Dinmore Hill Leominster HR6 0PY, Leominster, GB
  • +441432530088
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy quieter trails and better chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes for the varied terrain and longer trails.
  • Take part in the Gruffalo Trail for a fun, interactive experience with children.
  • Parking is free for blue badge holders during visitor centre hours; register your badge at the centre.
  • Check the visitor centre opening times before planning your visit, especially around holidays.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Bus service 492 connects Hereford and Leominster to Queenswood, running regularly throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and public holidays. Tickets cost around £3–£5 one way.

  • Car

    Driving to Queenswood from Leominster takes about 10 to 15 minutes via Dinmore Hill. Parking is available on site with charges managed by ANPR; blue badge holders park free during visitor centre hours. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 for a day.

  • Walking

    For those staying in Leominster, walking to Queenswood is feasible in about 45 to 60 minutes over a gently undulating rural route. Paths are a mix of paved and natural surfaces, suitable for most fitness levels but less accessible for wheelchairs.

Queenswood Arboretum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Queenswood Arboretum

A Woodland Legacy Rooted in History

Queenswood Arboretum sits on the historic site of a vast ancient oak forest that once stretched across Herefordshire to the Welsh borders. Originally known as 'Kings Wood,' it was renamed during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, reflecting its royal heritage. The arboretum itself began in 1953 as a collection of trees from around the world, now spanning 47 acres and celebrated for its spectacular spring blossoms and vibrant autumn colours. Surrounding this cultivated collection is over 120 acres of native ancient woodland, protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its ecological importance.

Rich Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts

The woodland is a sanctuary for wildlife, hosting more than 190 plant species including scarce varieties like wood vetch and bird's nest orchid. It supports nationally rare dormice populations monitored through a national scheme, alongside mammals such as polecats, yellow-necked mice, fallow and muntjac deer. Birdlife is abundant with woodpeckers, warblers, chiffchaffs, and blackcaps thriving in the habitat. The arboretum and woodland also provide a haven for butterflies like the silver-washed fritillary and purple hairstreak, as well as rare beetles dependent on deadwood.

Visitor Experience and Family Attractions

Visitors can explore a network of surfaced walking paths weaving through the arboretum’s diverse tree collections and the ancient woodland beyond. The site features a popular Gruffalo Trail, an interactive walk for children that brings the beloved storybook characters to life amidst the trees. The visitor centre offers a welcoming café, gift shop, and facilities including restrooms and picnic areas. Families appreciate the woodland playground and the peaceful natural setting, which is accessible and suitable for all ages.

Seasonal Highlights and Scenic Beauty

Queenswood is renowned for its seasonal displays: cherry and magnolia blossoms paint the arboretum in spring, while maples and oaks blaze with rich colours in autumn. The tranquil environment invites mindfulness and nature appreciation year-round. Birdsong and the rustle of leaves provide a serene backdrop, making it a perfect spot for quiet walks, birdwatching, and photography.

Commitment to Sustainability and Education

Managed by Herefordshire Wildlife Trust in partnership with New Leaf Sustainable Development, Queenswood embodies sustainable practices including renewable energy use and enhanced recycling. The Sustainable Future Centre on site educates visitors on eco-friendly living and conservation. The reserve balances public enjoyment with wildlife protection, maintaining a low-impact environment that supports its diverse habitats.

Practical Information for Visitors

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, with the visitor centre and café operating from 10 am to 4 pm, except Christmas Day. Entry to the arboretum and country park is free, with parking charges managed by ANPR systems; blue badge holders can park free during visitor centre hours. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads in main areas, with some freedom allowed in the arboretum under control. The site is accessible for families, seniors, and those with disabilities, offering a peaceful yet engaging nature escape close to Leominster.

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