October colours.
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Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum

4.5
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore a world of trees at Queenswood Arboretum, find Gruffalo characters, and enjoy stunning countryside views. A perfect family and nature escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends, mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy family fun

CrowdMedium
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October colours.

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum

Best Time

Weekends, mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy family fun

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a world of trees at Queenswood Arboretum, find Gruffalo characters, and enjoy stunning countryside views. A perfect family and nature escape.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful place to visit for just the cost of parking, with a huge variety of trees and wildlife."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Gruffalo Trail Fun

Kids love hunting for Gruffalo characters! Arrive early for the best experience.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore diverse tree collections and viewpoints. Essential for enjoying the park's vastness.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gruffalo Trail

The Gruffalo Trail

Various points throughout the park

Follow the trail to find beloved characters from the classic children's book. A hit with families!

Giant Redwood Section

Giant Redwood Section

Arboretum

Stand in awe beneath colossal Redwoods, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere. Truly a sight to behold!

Viewpoint

Viewpoint

Designated viewpoint

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the picturesque Herefordshire countryside. Perfect for a moment of reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Gruffalo Magic

Little ones will adore the Gruffalo trail, a highlight for many families. Arrive early to beat crowds and ensure a magical experience finding all the characters. It's a fantastic way to engage kids with nature.

Explore the Arboretum's Wonders

With over 1,200 rare and exotic trees across 47 acres, Queenswood is a botanist's dream. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring diverse sections, from towering Redwoods to unique global species. Parking is affordable and grants access to this natural wonderland.

Best Times

When
Weekends, mornings
Why
Beat the crowds, enjoy family fun
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration, peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Please behave like adults, no giggling. This will upset some men and excite others! We’re in #hereford a little city with a big secret. #herefordshire #PlacesToVisit #britishhumour #ukcomedy #satire #LearnOnTikTok
@philc84
48.3K likes • 510.7K views

🎯 Gruffalo Trail Fun

Kids love hunting for Gruffalo characters! Arrive early for the best experience. InstagramReddit+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore diverse tree collections and viewpoints. Essential for enjoying the park's vastness. Reddit

This is the perfect place to spend a morning or afternoon! Walking trails, birdwatching & feeding, wildlife, picnics, & nature. It’s an easy and relaxed/ slow paced walk so it’s great for kids too. The visitor center & bathrooms are open Tuesday-Sunday + Monday holidays 9:00am-4:30pm. 📍Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield, MA #massachusetts #exploremassachusetts #thingstodoinmass #trails...
@lists.and.luggage
38.2K likes • 435.1K views
Come and join us at Queenswood Country Park & Arboretum this Sunday. We'll have the Chatty Van with us and we're looking forward to meeting you. It's national apple day too! #healthwatch #10000stories #health #herefordshire
hwherefordshire
5 likes • 80 views

🚗 Affordable Parking

Parking fees are reasonable and grant access to the entire park. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, making it great for pet owners. InstagramReddit

Queenswood Country Park & Arboretum is within a 10 minute drive of the Lodges. Grab your dog & take a peaceful stroll through the Arboretum; covering 47 acres it has a collection of over 1,200 rare and exotic trees🌳and is a wonderful place to while away an afternoon. @queenswoodcountrypark #QueenswoodCountryPark #Herefordshire #ukstaycation #couplesgetaway #ukgetaway #travel #travelexploring #...
starsandvinesluxurylodges
7 likes • 803 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Gruffalo Trail Fun

Kids love hunting for Gruffalo characters! Arrive early for the best experience. InstagramReddit+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore diverse tree collections and viewpoints. Essential for enjoying the park's vastness. Reddit

🚗 Affordable Parking

Parking fees are reasonable and grant access to the entire park. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, making it great for pet owners. InstagramReddit

🧺 Picnic Spots Galore

Plenty of space and tables for picnics, a perfect way to enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum, highlighting its stunning arboretum with diverse trees, the fun Gruffalo Trail for families, and the beautiful countryside views. The affordable parking and dog-friendly nature are also frequently praised, making it a highly recommended spot for a relaxing and engaging day out.

"Fabulous place for an autumn walk. Enjoyed by all ages and dogs too. Mostly flat with some gentle slopes. Well signed so no feat of getting lost."

Cath Fielding

"A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood... And the mouse had the best time ever 🤣 The perfect spot for a family walk, hunting for the Gruffalo and all the other characters too. Lots of different paths to take and plenty of space for picnics. The play area is perfect and the cafe is really good too. Definitely worth a visit! We visit time and time again 🌳🦉🐍🦊🐭"

Hollie Brookes

"Lovely place to go for a nice Autumn walk. Free of charge, only pay for parking which was reasonable. Nice little cafe with plenty of food options."

Andy Morris

What People Like

Stunning tree collection
Fun Gruffalo Trail
Beautiful viewpoints

What People Dislike

Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum is located in Herefordshire. It's about a 15-minute drive from Hereford city center.Instagram If you're coming from further afield, it's a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Cardiff.Instagram Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the park. Check local bus routes if you're relying on public transport.

While specific details on public transport routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check with local bus operators for the most up-to-date information. Many visitors opt for car travel due to the park's location. Instagram

The park offers parking facilities, and visitors have noted that the parking is affordable.Reddit This makes it a cost-effective option for a day out.

While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, cycling is a popular way to explore the countryside. If you plan to cycle, ensure you have a secure place to park your bike. Mountain biking is permitted in most areas with consideration for walkers.Reddit

The park is described as having 'accessibility friendly' trails,Reddit suggesting that it is a good destination for wheelchair users. However, it's always advisable to check with the park directly for the most detailed accessibility information.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum is generally free, with the primary cost being parking.Reddit This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for exploring nature.

The visitor center and bathrooms are open Tuesday-Sunday and on Monday holidays from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.TikTok It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current operating hours, especially for specific facilities.

The Gruffalo Trail is a feature within the park, and typically there is no separate admission fee for it. The cost associated with visiting is primarily for parking.Reddit+1

Yes, dogs are welcome at Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum, provided they are kept on a lead.InstagramReddit This makes it a great spot for a day out with your canine companion.

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum hosts various events. For example, they've had the Chatty Van for community engagement Instagram and theatrical storytelling performances.Instagram It's worth checking their schedule for upcoming events.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Queenswood offers a variety of activities including walking trails, birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and picnicking.TikTok The park is famous for its extensive arboretum with over 1,200 rare and exotic trees,InstagramReddit a Gruffalo trail for children,Instagram+1 and a viewpoint with stunning countryside vistas.Reddit

Absolutely! The Gruffalo Trail is a major draw for families with young children, offering an interactive and fun way to explore the park and discover characters from the popular book.InstagramReddit It's designed to be engaging for kids.

Yes, Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum has facilities including toilets and a cafe.Reddit The visitor center and bathrooms are open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday to Sunday, and on Monday holidays.TikTok

The arboretum boasts a diverse collection of over 1,200 rare and exotic trees from around the globe.InstagramReddit Highlights include the enormous Giant Redwoods, which create a unique, cathedral-like atmosphere.Reddit

With its stunning trees, scenic viewpoints, and seasonal foliage,Instagram Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum offers excellent opportunities for photography. The Giant Redwood section, in particular, provides dramatic and awe-inspiring shots.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe at Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum.Reddit It's a convenient spot to grab refreshments during your visit.

Picnicking is highly encouraged at Queenswood Country Park. There are plenty of picnic tables available, making it an ideal spot to enjoy your own food amidst nature.Reddit

While specific menu details aren't provided, the cafe is noted as being 'really good'.Reddit It likely offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages suitable for park visitors.

With its vast grounds and numerous quiet spots,Reddit Queenswood Country Park offers many lovely locations for a romantic picnic. Find a secluded bench or a scenic clearing to enjoy a meal together.

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum sometimes hosts events related to local produce, such as National Apple Day.Instagram While not a permanent feature, keep an eye out for special events that might offer local goods.

📸 📸 Photography

The Giant Redwood section offers dramatic, towering shots.Reddit The viewpoint provides panoramic countryside vistas,Reddit and the arboretum itself is a treasure trove of diverse tree species. Seasonal foliage in autumn also creates beautiful photographic opportunities.Instagram

Yes, with abundant wildlife like squirrels and various bird species,Reddit along with the diverse flora, it's an excellent location for nature photography. The unique trees and landscapes offer endless subjects.

Information regarding drone usage is not explicitly provided. It's recommended to check with the park management or Herefordshire Wildlife Trust for their drone policy before flying.

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light for photography. The dappled light under the Redwoods can also create a unique photographic effect.Reddit

The Gruffalo Trail offers fun and whimsical photo opportunities with the character carvings.InstagramReddit The adventure play area also provides chances for candid family shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum is a top-tier destination for families. The Gruffalo Trail is a must-do, turning a nature walk into an exciting treasure hunt for little ones.InstagramReddit+1 The adventure play area offers more fun, and the generally easy trails are perfect for small legs.TikTokReddit With a cafe and picnic spots, it's easy to spend a full day here without a fuss.

Remember to bring your camera for photos with the Gruffalo characters and enjoy the wildlife spotting opportunities. The park's accessibility also means it's suitable for families with strollers or younger children who might need a break. It's a place where kids can connect with nature in a fun and engaging way.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts

For solo visitors and nature lovers, Queenswood offers a peaceful sanctuary. The arboretum's vast collection of trees InstagramReddit provides endless fascination, from the towering Redwoods to exotic species from around the globe. Find a quiet bench at the viewpoint Reddit to contemplate the landscape or simply wander the diverse trails and enjoy the solitude.

It's an ideal spot for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.Reddit The park's accessibility and well-maintained paths make it easy to explore at your own pace, allowing for deep immersion in the natural environment. The affordable parking means you can enjoy a full day of exploration without breaking the bank.

🐶 Dog Owners

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum is a dog-friendly haven, welcoming well-behaved dogs on leads.InstagramReddit Your furry companions will love exploring the extensive grounds and diverse trails alongside you. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air in a beautiful natural setting.

Remember to be considerate of other visitors and wildlife by keeping your dog on a lead. The park offers plenty of space for dogs to roam safely, making it a great choice for a day out with your four-legged friend.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Arboretum

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum is renowned for its extensive collection of over 1,200 rare and exotic trees spanning 47 acres.Instagram Visitors can wander through distinct sections, each showcasing trees from different parts of the world. A particular highlight is the Giant Redwood section, where trees reach colossal sizes, creating an almost cathedral-like atmosphere with their immense canopies.Reddit The spongy bark of these trees contributes to a quieter, more serene environment beneath them, making it a truly immersive experience.

Exploring the arboretum is a journey through global flora. You'll encounter species you might never see elsewhere, offering a unique educational and visual experience. The sheer scale of some of the trees is breathtaking, providing a sense of wonder and perspective. It's a place where you can truly get lost in nature and appreciate the diversity of plant life on our planet.Reddit

For those interested in botany or simply seeking a peaceful walk surrounded by natural grandeur, the arboretum is the heart of Queenswood. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot to explore, and take your time to absorb the magnificent sights and sounds of this living collection.Reddit

Family Fun: The Gruffalo Trail and Beyond

Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum is a fantastic destination for families, largely thanks to its popular Gruffalo Trail.InstagramReddit+1 This trail invites children to embark on a quest to find various characters from the beloved children's book, making the visit an interactive adventure. It's a brilliant way to engage younger visitors with the outdoors and encourage exploration.

Beyond the Gruffalo, the park offers an adventure play area perfect for children to burn off energy.Reddit The generally easy and relaxed walking trails are also suitable for kids, allowing them to explore at their own pace.TikTokReddit The abundance of wildlife, such as squirrels and birds, provides constant fascination for curious young minds.Reddit

With facilities like toilets and a cafe,Reddit and ample space for picnics,Reddit Queenswood is well-equipped for family outings. The combination of engaging activities, natural beauty, and practical amenities makes it a highly recommended spot for a memorable family day out in Herefordshire.

Scenic Vistas and Tranquil Walks

For those seeking a moment of peace and stunning scenery, Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum offers a dedicated viewpoint that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Herefordshire countryside.Reddit It's an ideal spot to pause, reflect, and soak in the natural beauty of the region. The tranquil atmosphere of the park, especially in its quieter sections, allows visitors to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The park's diverse walking trails cater to various preferences, from gentle strolls through the arboretum to more invigorating routes. The accessibility-friendly trails Reddit ensure that most visitors can enjoy the park's offerings. Whether you're looking for a brisk walk or a leisurely meander, Queenswood provides a beautiful natural setting to do so.

Many visitors describe the park as a 'lovely mostly quiet place',Reddit highlighting its appeal for those who appreciate serenity. The combination of accessible paths, beautiful landscapes, and peaceful ambiance makes Queenswood a perfect retreat for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.

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