Arley Arboretum

A Magical Place to Explore

Arley Arboretum is situated on the banks of the magnificent River Severn at Upper Arley, within the stunning scenery of the Arley Estate, near the historic market town of Bewdley.

One of the oldest Arboretums in Britain is home to over 300 species of trees from around the world, with restored Italian Gardens being the jewel of the crown, and features Britain’s longest Laburnum arch, measuring 65 metres.

Popular with nature lovers, horticulturist, arboriculturists, families and walkers, Arley Arboretum is a magical place to visit throughout the year, with every season bringing a different breath taking vista.

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Visitor Information

Special Trees at Arley Arboretum

All trees are special in some way, but at Arley Arboretum there are some particularly interesting residents.

Arley Arboretum is home to some of the most stunning gardens found anywhere in the UK. 

These include our beautifully restored Italian Garden, the magical Magnolia Garden, our spectacular display of Rhododendrons and Azaleas, a fine collection of Acers and a selection of special tree species.

View the trees

Explore the Italian garden

Our carefully restored formal Italian Garden.

Formal plantings, grand water features, a temple and dovecote help make the peaceful walled Italian Garden a very special place within the arboretum. Outside the walls, the trees of the arboretum rise majestically skyward. Inside, there is time to sit, relax and contemplate. Near to the Italian Garden is a picnic area.

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The Garden Tearoom At Arley

Nestled within the historic walls of Arley Arboretum lies our charming Garden Tearoom, a welcoming space open to all. While perfectly positioned for Arboretum visitors, you don’t need an admission ticket to enjoy our hospitality – the tearoom operates independently and welcomes everyone.

Treat yourself to our chef’s homemade delights, from freshly baked cakes and warming soups to our signature ploughman’s boards and seasonal sandwiches. Complement your meal with our barista-crafted coffees, specialty teas, or indulgent hot chocolates.

For something special, explore our carefully curated drinks menu featuring local favourites including Bewdley Brewery beers and wines from the nearby Halfpenny Green estate.

No Arboretum admission required for tearoom visits.

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Discover Our Laburnum Arch

Under planted with Bluebells and Alliums, which are ornamental onions. It flowers in May/June with bright yellow flowers

Our Head Gardener built it as a ‘Z’ shape instead of a straight line, to add a little more interest when you walk through the arch. 

At the end there is a stunning view of the Severn Valley which adds even more of an impact!

The Acers

Arley Arboretum boasts a fine collection of Acers which make beautiful focal points throughout autumn colour.

Acers are not only attractive in the autumn but also in the spring. In spring Acers produce an abundance of wonderful small flowers which open before the leaves, producing an amazing sight that not a lot of people forget.

Originally our Magnolia Garden was supposed to be an Acer garden, but in 1963 we had one of our coldest winters which wiped out all of the Acers, so in the late 60’s the garden was replanted as a Magnolia Garden. 

Since then we have added a few Acers back into the garden, to add a little more interest after the Magnolias have finished their season in May.

Autumn

There are few displays more stunning than Acers in autumn. Rich colours make a bold statement against the mellow seasonal background.  

Experience nature’s grand finale as sumptuous autumn colours sweep through the arboretum, crowned by the deep crimsons of our specimen Acers. Not to be missed!

Rhododendrons & Azaleas

After the peaceful, muted colours of winter, the Arboretum is transformed in spring.

A riot of reds, pinks and blues make up our spectacular display of Rhododendrons and Azaleas. What a pleasure it is to walk among the Rhododendrons when, having waited patiently in bud all winter, they explode into joyful colour.

Rhododendron is characterised by shrubs and small to large trees, the smallest one growing 10-100 cms tall and the largest to 98ft tall.

The leaves are spirally and size can range from 1-2 cms to over 50 cms.

They may be evergreen or deciduous and in some species the underside of the leaves can be covered with scales or hairs and there are also alpine varieties.

Borders & Planters

Arley Arboretum is home to some stunning borders and planters, providing us with a riot of colour throughout the seasons. From ornate urns in the walled Italian Garden to the long herbaceous borders of the orchard and alpine beds in front of the Garden Tea Room there is something for everyone.

We also sell a variety of the plants we have on show at Arley Blooms; our very own plant stall next to the entrance kiosk.

Important Update

As we continue our commitment to sustainability and improving our guest experience, we’re excited to share that the entire Arley Estate — including the Tearoom and Events Venue — will be going cashless from January 2026. This change helps us reduce our environmental impact, streamline operations, and support a more efficient, secure, and modern way of working across the estate. We’ll continue to accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as contactless and mobile payments. Our team is, of course, here to support anyone who may need a little extra help adjusting to the new system. Thank you for joining us on this positive step towards a greener future for Arley Estate.