Queenswood Celebrations

The Arboretum at Queenswood Country Park was planted 50 years ago to mark the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and this year the Herefordshire Council Parks & Countryside Service, in partnership with Queenswood Coronation Fund, is celebrating its Golden Jubilee.

To make the year really special and help you celebrate and learn about your arboretum, the Countryside Team has organised a dedicated programme of events to take place at Queenswood between Easter and November.

The events will start on Good Friday with the launch of Bertie Buzzard’s Easter Trail, open throughout the Easter holidays. Entry forms are available from Queenswood Tourist Information Centre. Tickets are £1 and all correct entries will win an Easter treat!

James Bisset, Herefordshire Council’s Countryside Officer at Queenswood, said: “Thanks to funding secured through the Green Grass project - administered by the Countryside Agency in partnership with Advantage West Midlands - we have been able to make some exciting new improvements to the facilities at Queenswood to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the Arboretum.

“A seaside-style telescope has been installed at the viewpoint to help you make the most of the view and the children’s play-area has been developed with the installation of a large new multi-play unit, with easier access for the mobility impaired.

“In time for the Summer holidays, you should also see some changes in the picnic area, with better drainage and newly seeded grass ensuring it is a pleasant place to sit throughout the year.

As well, look out for enhanced signage and interpretation around the park.”

The fun will continue with ‘Queenswood in Spring’ - three guided walks led by the Countryside Rangers on Sunday April 20, April 27; and May 4. Walks are from 2pm to 4pm and participants should meet at the telephone box.

Discover the beautiful arboretum and woodlands at Queenswood as the new leaves appear on the trees and the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells and other wildflowers.

These walks are free but a donation to the Queenswood Coronation Fund would be appreciated.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, April 24, the WildPlay Project will take to the woods for the first time with some family fun, making Jubilee Crowns at Queenswood.

Artist Becky McKay will be on hand to help as you make a crown from natural materials and you will have the chance to take part in building a giant 2D crown sculpture.

The activity is aimed at children, aged five to 12, who must be accompanied by an adult, and the finished sculpture will be put on display at Queenswood throughout the Jubilee celebrations.

The workshop is free so please come and join in at the top of Lime Avenue anytime between 11am and 2pm.

James Bisset added: ”These are just the first of many exciting events taking place at Queenswood this year - look out for teddy bears picnics, lots more guided walks, play-days and art events throughout the summer and autumn.

“We have made a real effort to ensure there is something in the programme for everyone.

“We hope you enjoy your visit to Queenswood, in its Jubilee year, whether you come to join in with one of the events, to see the improvements or simply come to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet that this popular beauty spot provides.”

The full programme of events is available from Tourist Information Centres, Libraries, main Council Offices and Info in Herefordshire.

For more information please contact the Parks & Countryside Service on 01568 798320 or email queenswood@herefordshire.gov.uk.