Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is one of the most spectacular tree gardens in the world. An historical collection of over 3,000 different trees and shrub species many of which are rare or endangered in their native lands. Covering 600 acres and run by the Forestry Commission, Westonbirt has one of the finest collections of trees and shrubs in the world. It contains 18,000 trees, planted from 1829 to the present day. It is famous for its magnificent displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, prunus and wild flowers of Silk Wood. Autumn brings a dazzling kaleidoscope of colours, the best of which may be seen during the last week of October or first week of November. National Collection of Acer (Japanese cvs.) Robert Holford not only created the arboretum, but also rebuilt Westonbirt House (now Westonbirt School) and added formal pleasure gardens. In keeping with wealthy estate owners of his day, he created the arboretum for pleasure and as testament to his taste and wealth.