Paul Ratcliffe, Nature Reserve officer for the site, says: “primroses start the flowering in February and March and are soon followed by carpets of wood anemone. Later in the season bluebells appear. As well as these abundant displays there are many other, less well-known woodland species to look out for such as bugle, sanicle and enchanter’s nightshade and rarities such as herb paris. Turn your gaze upwards from the woodland floor to see magnolias, flowering cherries and dogwoods joining the riot.” 

Meanwhile, the bird song builds from March onwards. Listen for the distinctive song of the chiffchaff which returns from Africa in late February or March joining the spring songs of dunnocks and robins.  

Spring events & activities 

Capture the wonder of the seasons with an Introduction to Nature Photography course on four Saturday mornings, beginning Saturday 6th April. Passionate and experienced photographer, Julian John has been running photography workshops and guided walks for 10 years and nothing gives him more pleasure than helping people to develop their skills. Booking essential: Nature Photography Course | Spring | Herefordshire Wildlife Trust (herefordshirewt.org) 

Experience the woodland birdsong in its full glory on a guided evening chorus and twilight walk through the arboretum and wider woodland on Tuesday 7th May. This immersive experience promises an unforgettable encounter with the natural world, providing a rare opportunity to witness the seamless transition from day to night in the captivating realm of Queenswood. Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or a curious explorer, join us for an evening of discovery, serenaded by the captivating melodies of the woodland's avian choir and the emergence of its nocturnal inhabitants. Booking essential: Evening chorus and twilight walk | Herefordshire Wildlife Trust (herefordshirewt.org) 

Younger visitors can spend the day at our Wild Adventure Club (ages 8 to 12 years) running in the Easter holidays on 27th March and 3rd April from 10am to 3pm: Wild Adventure Club | Herefordshire Wildlife Trust (herefordshirewt.org), or join in with a wet clay sculpting Easter family workshop on 28th March. There are also children's Art Sessions with Olivia Mabey running on Sunday 7th April & 5th May: Children's Art Sessions with Olivia Mabey | Herefordshire Wildlife Trust (herefordshirewt.org) to join in with (no booking required).  

On Thursday 30th May the WildPlay team will be running Cooking on the Woodland Camp Fire – a unique family experience: Cooking on the Woodland Camp Fire | Herefordshire Wildlife Trust (herefordshirewt.org) (booking essential.) 

Visitor Information 

Queenswood Country Park & Arboretum is open from dawn to dusk; the visitor centre and toilets are open from 10am to 3.30pm. 

In the visitor centre you’ll find a range of beautiful nature-themed gifts for all ages. *This spring, spend more than £20 in the Visitor Centre to claim free parking! 

You can also buy hot and cold drinks, crisps and chocolate bars from the visitor centre. (*Please note, our café is currently closed for refurbishment.) 

There is an accessible toilet at the visitor centre and the main route around the arboretum is surfaced and suitable for off-road mobility scooters and sturdy pushchairs. There is one electric mobility scooter available to hire – please book in advance on 01432 530088.