The Cyril Hart Arboretum

Visitor information

Discover a collection of over 200 trees with some even dating back to the early 1900s

Established in 1915 with trees brought back by the Victorian plant hunter Ernest Wilson from his 1910 explorations of China, The Cyril Hart Arboretum is home to over 200 tree species. 

Originally known as the Speech House Arboretum, it was later renamed the Cyril Hart Arboretum after Dr Cyril Hart who dedicated a lifetime of service to forestry and was a Senior Verderer (1952 – 2009) of the Forest of Dean.

The collection of trees has been added to over the years and now contains species found from around the globe. 

The arboretum can be explored along surfaced and unsurfaced paths, most of which are flat and can easily accommodate pushchairs. The arboretum is also within a fenced area making this site popular with dog walkers.

At a glance

The Arboretum is open all year round, except when extreme weather forces closure
20/02/2024 11:41
We have trampers available to hire for those with limited mobility.
02/02/2024 13:34
Whilst enjoying the area please be a responsible dog owner. Please pick up after your dog, and don't allow your dog to approach other people unless invited.
17/01/2024 12:53

Things to do

Hire a Tramper at Cyril Hart Arboretum

Visitors with permanent or temporary limited mobility can hire one of two ‘Walking with Wheels’  trampers through the Countryside Mobility Scheme.

Trampers are off-road mobility scooters, which are easy to use and able to tackle a range of surfaces and gradients come rain or shine. You do not have to be registered disabled to hire a Tramper.

Maps of the routes will be provided when hiring.

Hire rates 

Price per Tramper: £2.50 per hour.

If you are not already a member of Countryside Mobility, becoming one is quick and easy and will be part of your induction (£3 for one-off hire, £5 for 2 weeks, £15 for 1 year). You can then use Trampers at around 50 other beauty spots around South West England.

Booking

Bookings for both Mallards Pike and Cyril Hart Arboretum are made at The Speech House Hotel, Coleford, Glos by calling 01594 822607

 

 

These trampers are provided by the Countryside Mobility Scheme, which is supported by Forest Voluntary Action Forum. Originally started by the Foresters' Forest Heritage Lottery funded programme, the tramper scheme continues thanks to funding from the Barnwood Trust and Forest of Dean Ramblers Association.

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The Cyril Hart Arboretum Path

The arboretum path that loops around is partially stoned on the right hand-side from the carpark; it is an easy trail with no waymarkers.

If you would like to extend your walk, follow the grass path at the north eastern end and take in many of the newly-planted trees donated by the Royal Forest of Dean Rotary Club.

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Nearby forests

Cafe at Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean

Beechenhurst

Beechenhurst lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands.

It is the ideal place for families to start their forest adventure, with a family activity trail, large forest-themed play area and Go Ape high ropes course. Explore the forest on foot using one of our walking trails, or bring your bikes and visit the wider forest using the Colliers Trail - our family-friendly cycling route.

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Speech House Woods

Speech House Woods

Visit Speech House Woodland, which is situated close to the most famous building in the Forest of Dean - The Speech House. 

The Speech House was built in 1676 by the King as a "court" where local people could have their say. Regular verderers meetings are still held here to discuss the management of the vert and venison.

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Lakeside view at Mallards Pike

Mallards Pike

There is something for everyone at this beautiful lakeside setting.

Adrenaline seekers can challenge themselves at Go Ape Tree Top Challenge. For those with energy left to burn there is Forest Segway or a range of running trails from 2km to 10km routes.

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The Roll of Honour Sculpture at New Fancy, Forest of Dean

New Fancy

Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, come and see the spectacular views that the old spoil heap now provides. The viewpoint is an ideal place to watch birds of prey soaring above the woodland.

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