New Facilities Coming to Winkworth Arboretum

Published on: 14 Apr, 2024
Updated on: 15 Apr, 2024

A CGI of how the new centre will look when complete.

In early February, Winkworth Arboretum’s neighbours had the opportunity to meet the team and get a closer look at the construction project currently underway to build a new car park and visitor centre.

Construction started in spring last year and after months of groundworks, the new building is starting to take shape. In just a few weeks the timber frame has been erected giving a much greater sense of the facility’s scale and what they will offer.

Works will start soon on the internal fit out which will include a new café – one of the largest National Trust cafés in the area – a shop and much anticipated new toilet facilities.

Winkworth’s general manager, Rhona MacCallum, gave details on how the team are working hard to ensure the smooth transition from the old facilities to the new. From making sure plug sockets are in the right place, finalising menus for the café, updating signage and starting a recruitment campaign, it’s full steam ahead ready for opening this summer.

Speaking about the project, Rhona said: “This is all extremely exciting. Winkworth is one of only two National Trust properties in the region to receive this sort of infrastructure investment. It’s been a long-time in the planning and it is a privilege to see it come to fruition.

The new Winkworth Centre under construction in January

“A new visitor centre will mean we can welcome visitors all year round, whatever the weather. Our new relocated car park will ensure that visitors have quick and easy access to the arboretum without blocking the main road at the entrance for our neighbours. We’ll even have a Changing Places toilet.

“Looking further ahead we will be restoring the old car park to the arboretum and are exploring further fundraising opportunities to make the arboretum more accessible for all.

“Whilst construction has been taking place, we’ve been doing our best to minimise the impact on our visitors and I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding whilst work continues.”

After a summer opening, the team will be looking forward to welcoming visitors for the ever-popular autumn colour season and has an extra special family Christmas planned involving a popular animated sheep. Many of you might know him as Shaun. Watch this space!

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/winkworth-arboretum