Frequently Asked Questions…

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, dogs are welcome in the arboretum as long as they are on a short lead at all times. Please clean up after your dog and place in any of the litter bins around the site.

Are bicycles / children’s scooters allowed in the arboretum?

No, sorry there is no cycling allowed in the arboretum (this applies to both children and adults), including any form of bike, trike, scooter or balance bike.

Do we allow picnicking in the arboretum?

Yes – visitors paying for Arboretum entrance can find picnic tables around the Arboretum for you to use and you can picnic on any of the grassy areas. Please clear up behind you and dispose of any litter in the bins.

Can I bring my own food?

We request that you do not eat your own food on the terrace or in the Visitor Centre or Lakeside Room – these areas are for customers making food / drink purchases from the Restaurant. You can find picnic tables situated around the Arboretum should you wish to bring your own food / drinks.

What time is food served?

• Drinks, light bites and lunches (including a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches) are served 10am – 3pm.
• Delicious homemade cakes are available all day.
• Hot, roast meat baguettes are available from 12:00.
• Carvery Lunch is served from 12.00 – 2.00pm.

Is booking necessary for the Restaurant?

We always recommend booking for the Restaurant so that we can lay a table for you. We advise booking as we are often busy. Same-day bookings should ideally be placed prior to 11am if you wish to have your table laid.

Can I bring my own drinks if I am eating in the Restaurant?

Yes, even though we are licensed to sell alcoholic drinks you are welcome to bring your own (and soft drinks if you desire). We do not make a corkage charge.

Do you offer concessions?

The only concessions offered are for wheelchair users / disabled persons and carers – currently reduced admission fee – £3.50. Group discount for 25+ people is offered at a 50p reduction per person .

What is suitable footwear for walking around the Arboretum?

We advise the wearing of suitable walking footwear for the time of year / weather.

Is the Arboretum pushchair friendly?

A large proportion of the Arboretum has gravelled pathways which are generally suitable for pushchairs. However, you are within a natural landscaped area and in parts some pathways may be rough / hard and in wet weather certain routes may get muddy.

What is accessibility like for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility?

The Arboretum is a ‘natural visitor attraction’ and the terrain / pathways may prove challenging at certain points, especially for small wheeled wheelchairs.

If I hold an Annual Pass can I lend it to family / friends to use?

No, Memberships are non-transferable and can only be used by the named cardholders.

Is parking free?

Yes, you will find ample, free parking, including several spaces for Blue Badge holders.

Is smoking permitted?

Smoking is not allowed anywhere in the Arboretum grounds / Visitor Centre, however it is permitted on the car park.