Photo credit to Paul Foley
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Batsford Arboretum
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When:
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Daily
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Where:
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Batsford Arboretum
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| Costs: |
£4; concessions £3; 5-15 yrs £1
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| Opening Hours: |
Feb-Nov: 10am-5pm; Nov-Feb: 10am-4pm; Boxing Day and New Years Day 11am-3pm
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Batsford House boasts a beautiful arboretum created in the 1870s by Lord Redesdale, who spent much of his time in the Far East. More than 100 years later his grand plan has come to fruition, with exotic trees from all over Asia tumbling amongst silvery streams on the banks around the house.
Chinese bamboo, monkey puzzle trees and American maples are only a few highlights of the spectacular gardens. In spring, the magnolias and cherry trees break into flower. In summer, the grounds are lush and tranquil - a great place for a picnic. In autumn it really is a sight to be seen, as the trees break into a riot of fiery colours.
As you walk around the arboretum, you'll come across a Japanese Pagoda (with a slice from a tree which is over 400 years old) and a bronze Buddha behind the Woodman's Cottage. There is also a falconry centre where you can see flying shows from March to November.
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