Oxford: Harcourt Arboretum Entry Ticket

For nature enthusiasts seeking a budget-friendly excursion, Oxford’s Harcourt Arboretum offers a captivating adventure. With over 130 acres of rare and endangered tree species, the arboretum’s entry ticket starts at just €9.30 per person, making it an accessible destination. Visitors can explore a diverse array of natural features, from the stunning Bluebell Wood to the majestic Lime Wood, all while enjoying the convenience of free parking. However, the true allure of this hidden gem lies in the stories it has to tell, and those who venture forth may be surprised by what they discover.

Good To Know

• Harcourt Arboretum offers entry tickets at €9.30 per person, with full refunds available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
• The arboretum is wheelchair accessible and provides free on-site parking for ticket holders, with guaranteed entry upon purchase.
• Spanning over 130 acres, the arboretum features rare and endangered tree species, including some of the oldest redwoods in the UK.
• Visitors can explore diverse natural features like Native Woodland, Bluebell Wood, Lime Wood, and Pinetum, offering a tranquil and immersive experience.
• The arboretum is conveniently located along the A4074 near Nuneham Courtenay and Oxford, and visitors can plan their experience based on seasonal highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Ticket Information and Pricing

The entry ticket to Harcourt Arboretum costs from €9.30 per person, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Visitors can also reserve their spot and pay nothing today, as the ticket is valid for 1 day and the arboretum is wheelchair accessible.

With this ticket, guests can explore over 130 acres of rare and endangered trees, featuring tranquil British woodland and open meadows.

The arboretum is home to some of the oldest redwoods in the UK, planted in the late 1850s.

Visitors are guaranteed entry with their ticket purchase and can access free parking at the site, located just off the A4074 near Nuneham Courtenay and Oxford.

Arboretum Overview

Spanning over 130 acres, Harcourt Arboretum showcases a diverse collection of rare and endangered tree species, offering visitors a tranquil and immersive experience in a British woodland setting. Featuring tranquil British woodland and open meadows, the arboretum is home to some of the oldest redwoods in the UK, planted in the late 1850s. Visitors can explore the various natural features and attractions, including the Native Woodland, Bluebell Wood, Lime Wood, Palmers Lets, and the Pinetum and Serpentine Ride.

Feature	Description
Native Woodland	Showcases various types of native UK woodlands
Bluebell Wood	Mature oak woodland with ancient specimens; best visited late April to mid-May for bluebell displays
Lime Wood	Contains some of the tallest limes in the UK
Palmers Lets	Over 13,000 native tree species including oak, lime, beech, and yew

Native Woodland

Visitors can explore the diverse array of native UK woodlands showcased within Harcourt Arboretum‘s expansive grounds. These woodlands offer a glimpse into the natural habitats that have thrived in the region for centuries, highlighting the rich biodiversity found across the arboretum’s 130-acre expanse.

Winding paths lead guests through oak, beech, and yew-dominated forests, each supporting a unique ecosystem of plants and wildlife. Along the way, visitors can spot towering ancient trees and discover the subtle nuances between the various woodland types.

From the lush canopy overhead to the mossy forest floor, these native woodlands provide a serene and immersive natural experience for all who explore them.

Bluebell Wood

Within Harcourt Arboretum’s expansive woodlands, a mature oak-dominated forest known as the Bluebell Wood offers visitors a captivating natural spectacle each spring.

Carpets of vibrant blue flowers bloom beneath the canopy, transforming the woodland into a picturesque display of color and fragrance that peaks from late April to mid-May.

The ancient trees in this area provide the ideal conditions for these enchanting bluebells to thrive, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

The forest floor is carpeted with the nodding blue blooms, contrasting beautifully with the verdant greens of the surrounding foliage.

Strolling through the Bluebell Wood is a highlight for many who visit the Arboretum, providing a serene and enchanting glimpse of nature’s springtime splendor.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lime Wood

Tucked within the expansive forests of Harcourt Arboretum, the Lime Wood boasts some of the tallest lime trees in the United Kingdom, their towering trunks and lush canopies creating a serene and verdant sanctuary.

These majestic specimens, some of which date back hundreds of years, stand as living testaments to the arboretum’s rich history and ecological significance.

Visitors can wander through the Lime Wood’s shaded pathways, marveling at the trees’ impressive heights and the dappled sunlight that filters through the leaves.

This tranquil area is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life, offering a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

Pinetum and Serpentine Ride

The Pinetum and Serpentine Ride constitute the oldest part of Harcourt Arboretum, a verdant tapestry of rare and exotic conifers interspersed with a serpentine path that winds its way through a magnificent display of rhododendrons and azaleas. This historic area showcases some of the arboretum’s most impressive plantings, from towering pines to vibrant flowering shrubs.

Feature	Description
Pinetum	A diverse collection of conifers, including pines, firs, and cedars
Serpentine Ride	A meandering path that leads visitors through the Pinetum
Rhododendrons & Azaleas	Vibrant displays of these flowering plants from May to August
Wildlife	Opportunities to spot birds, insects, and small mammals throughout the area

Visitors can enjoy the tranquil beauty of this ancient corner of the arboretum, surrounded by the sights and scents of its remarkable flora.

Seasonal Highlights

Harcourt Arboretum showcases a diverse array of seasonal highlights that captivate visitors throughout the year.

In spring, the Bluebell Wood dazzles with its ancient oak specimens and vibrant floral displays, best viewed from late April to mid-May.

Summertime offers a refreshing respite, as the cool, shady spots provide the perfect setting for leisurely strolls.

As autumn arrives, the Acer Glade and Lime Wood burst into a symphony of vivid colors, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Even in the winter, the arboretum’s enchanting snowy landscapes offer opportunities to spot wildlife, including deer, hares, and birds of prey.

Each season at Harcourt Arboretum promises a unique and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts.

Visitor Information and Directions

Conveniently located along the A4074, the Harcourt Arboretum can be accessed by taking the right turn when leaving Nuneham Courtenay towards Oxford, or the left turn when entering from Oxford. Ticket holders are guaranteed entry and can enjoy complimentary parking on-site.

To ensure an enjoyable visit, guests are advised to check availability for starting times and participant selection. The Arboretum offers a variety of attractions and features that can be explored at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil stroll or a wildlife-watching adventure, the Harcourt Arboretum has a lot to offer.

Visitor Information
Guaranteed Entry	✓
Free Parking	✓
Check Availability	✓

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dogs Allowed at the Arboretum?

Dogs are generally allowed at the arboretum, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Visitors are asked to clean up after their pets and respect the natural environment.

Is There a Cafe or Restaurant On-Site?

The arboretum does not have a dedicated cafe or restaurant on-site. However, visitors can enjoy picnics and refreshments in the designated picnic areas throughout the scenic grounds.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Explore the Entire Arboretum?

Visitors typically take 2-3 hours to fully explore the 130-acre Harcourt Arboretum. The large scale allows for leisurely strolls through diverse landscapes, from native woodlands to wildflower meadows, with opportunities to admire the impressive collection of rare and endangered trees.

Are There Any Guided Tours Available?

Yes, the Harcourt Arboretum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. These tours provide visitors with insights into the arboretum’s diverse tree collections, natural features, and seasonal highlights. Tour times and durations vary, so visitors should check the schedule upon arrival.

Can Visitors Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the Arboretum. There are picnic areas and benches throughout the expansive grounds, making it a great spot for a casual outdoor meal or snack.

Sum Up

The Harcourt Arboretum offers a budget-friendly and convenient way to explore over 130 acres of rare and endangered tree species.

With a full refund policy, guaranteed entry, and free parking, it’s an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts looking to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Bluebell Wood, Lime Wood, and other diverse natural features.

It’s an excellent choice for a peaceful and educational day out.

You can check if your dates are available here: