Join the party at arboretum – it’s much more than a walk in the woods!

Winkworth Arboretum is throwing a party – and everyone is invited to join the fun on Sunday, 1^st September. For the 10th year in a row, the arboretum will buzz with song, dance and activity for Live Local, Love Winkworth, a spectacular community day in celebration of all things local.

Local artists, small businesses and charities will line the paths of the arboretum, near Godalming, transforming the woodland into a hive of activity and adventure to inspire all ages. The National Trust is even waiving the entrance fee for the day, so everyone can enjoy the party atmosphere.

Featuring a packed programme of events, there will be a whole host of delights to discover throughout the day. Visitors will have the chance to see local craftspeople in action and talk to them about their work. They will be able to get up close to creatures great and small, including alpacas and awe-inspiring birds of prey, watching the birds take flight in flying displays in the meadow.

The Fleur-de-Lys Morris dancers from Godalming will be returning with a colourful display of dancing. There will also be a varied programme of music throughout the day, featuring bands including the Friday Five jazz quintet, the You Ukes ukulele band and George’s Coastline Jazz Band. Each group will bring their unique sounds and rhythms to the arboretum.

There will be tasty treats a-plenty, with local food stalls selling everything from popcorn to burgers, handmade chocolate to nut butters. The Arbor tearoom will be open all day serving drinks, snacks and hot lunches, with vegetarian options available. If it’s a hot day visitors will be able to cool down with refreshing scoops of ice-cream by Jude’s.

Meanwhile, young adventurers can explore the natural play area, or climb up to the very top of the trees as they explore the Tree Adventure and let off steam on the rope tunnel, fireman’s pole and mini climbing wall.

For a longer day out, a walk down to the boathouse is just the thing. Settle down on a seat by the lake and watch the world go by or stroll along the paths and through to Badgers Bowl then climb up to the viewing platform for beautiful views across the countryside.

With 130 acres of glorious woodland to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you have never visited Winkworth Arboretum, or haven’t visited for a while, come along – it’s far more than just a walk in the woods.