The STIHL Treetop Walkway at the Westonbirt Arboretum was officially by BBC TV Countryfile presenter, Ellie Harrison, on Tuesday 26 April.  Despite cold conditions and the occasional snow flurries the 200 specially invited guests were invited to be amongst the first to view the array of trees at the National Arboretum from a totally new perspective.

The previous evening, HRH The Duke of Wales had seen for himself the new development at Westonbirt which is close to his Highgrove home

The main walkway is step-free, making it accessible to all visitors on foot, and those using mobility scooters, wheelchairs or pushchairs. It is 300 metres long and gradually rises on gentle inclines to a height of 13 metres. 

Now visitors can experience stunning new views and discover more about Westonbirt’s world-renowned collection of 15,000 trees from high above the ground.

There are seven interactive hotspots to give visitors the chance to get up-close with nature and learn more about the fascinating world of trees. The walkway also includes a crows next viewing platform, rope bridge and mesh-floored section to provide new and unrivalled views.

Robin Lennie, STIHL GB managing director said “The opening of the Stihl Treetop walkway will be a significant milestone for the company. As a company with such a rich heritage in tree management, it is important for us to support initiatives that help educate people on our wildlife. We are proud that this magnificent new structure will carry the Stihl name”

At a gathering in the Westonbirt Great Hall, Simon Hodgson, chief executive of  Forest Enterprise England formally thanked the donors, sponsors and all those involved in making the new attractions, including the new Woodland Centre, a reality after years of planning.