About
Designed for visitors of all ages, an exciting, interactive free summer programme will spark curiosity in the great outdoors and unlock the tales behind the trees.
Let the stories, science and sounds of the Arboretum's trees inspire you as you discover the importance of trees, their connection with humans and the wildlife that calls the woodland habitats their home.
In addition to the daily programme, every Wednesday throughout the summer Wonderous Takeovers will also give younger visitors the chance to engage in nature in a whole new way, as imaginative storytelling, performance, creativity, and play inspire more discovery.
Canopy
presented by the Lorna Rees Company
In the heart of the National Memorial Arboretum, Canopy invites audiences to immerse themselves in a unique, multi-part soundscape that celebrates the profound connections between humans and trees. This innovative sound art experience offers a joyful yet thought-provoking exploration of our woodlands, echoing the spirit of remembrance and reflection that defines the Arboretum.
10am - 5pm Daily
Wondrous Takeovers
Join in every Wednesday for a tree-inspired Wondrous Takeover and dive into a world of imagination!
From enchanting musical theatre performances performed by B' Opera, captivating music making workshops, interactive storytelling and hands-on arts and crafts, there's something for everyone.
Admission to some events is by free ticket which it is recommended to book in advance. On the day tickets are subject to availability.
Music Making Workshops
Let your child's creativity take root in our interactive music workshop, where the wonders of trees inspire rhythm, song and music.
Wednesday 23 July | 11am, 11.45am, 12.30pm, 1.15pm & 2.15pm
Wednesday 20 August | 11am, 11.45am, 12.30pm, 1.15pm & 2.15pm
B'Opera presents: Alice and the Library Tree
Suitable for ages 3-5 years
When a storm damages her beloved library tree, can Alice get it re-opened? Will she be any match for the White Rabbit and evil Queen of Hearts? Will her Fairy Godmother help like she's supposed to?
Come and find out in this magical interactive production, a whistlestop tour of beautiful music by Handel, Mozart, Beethoven and more, woven around nursery rhymes, folksong, and original music, all sprinkled with musical fairy dust by B'Opera's resident composer, Phil!
Wednesday 30 July | 11am & 1.30pm
Interactive Storytelling
Close your eyes and listen… Can you hear the whispers of the leaves? The stories carried by the wind? Every tree has a tale to tell—of the creatures it shelters, the air it purifies, the beauty it shares. Join in as the book "Tree Full of Wonder", a journey into the heart of nature, is brought to life. Together you will uncover the deep, unbreakable bond between people and trees.
Wednesday 6 August | 11am, 11.30am, 12pm, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2pm & 2.30pm
Wednesday 27 August | 11am, 11.30am, 12pm, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2pm & 2.30pm
Arts and Crafts
Let your imagination run through the woodlands in drop-in creative arts and crafts sessions.
For younger visitors, get crafty with twigs, leaves, feathers, and more! Create your own unique natural characters to bring the forest to life.
For older children, have a go at hapa zome, creating nature frames and turn pressed leaves into miniature masterpieces.
Wednesday 13 August | 11am - 3pm
B'Opera presents: Tall Trees and Tiny Seeds
Suitable for ages 0-5 years
Step into the magical world of trees! From whispering leaves to deep roots, join B'Opera for singing, swaying, and stomping. Little ones will explore nature's rhythm with songs about towering oaks, wiggly worms, and swirling autumn leaves. Let your imaginations grow together.
B'Opera First Songs Workshops are a way for you and your little one to explore how everyone can use rhythm, movement, and singing voices to bring a story to life. This special session celebrates the magic of trees, their deep roots, whispering leaves, and the stories they hold. A multi-sensory blend of performance and education led by professional musician and trained educator Zoë, liberally sprinkled with fun, interaction, and the wonder of nature!
Wednesday 27 August | 11am & 12.30pm
