Dog lovers and Wallace & Gromit fans alike have cause to celebrate as Forestry England unveils its enchanting Forest Walkies route at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum.
This innovative dog-walking trail is one of 22 specially crafted routes across England’s forests, created in partnership with Aardman and Ordnance Survey. It promises a tail-wagging good time for dogs and their families, encouraging quality time in nature and offering plenty of surprises along the way.
Silk Wood, the location for Westonbirt’s Forest Walkies, features a series of activity panels, each offering fun, themed challenges starring none other than Wallace & Gromit. Dog owners can test their pooch’s patience with Gromit-style “sit-stays,” indulge in a playful round of high-fives, or share a reflective moment beneath the towering trees. Cheating is all part of the game, and the experience concludes with a photo opportunity for your furry friend to channel their inner Gromit and “say cheese!”
For navigation ease, all Forest Walkies routes are available on the Ordnance Survey’s Maps app, helping visitors explore without a hitch. Moreover, entrants can access further details about these trails and enter a competition that offers the winning pooch – and their human companions – a luxurious holiday experience.
To make the day extra memorable, a special activity pack is available for purchase at Westonbirt’s Welcome Building and Shop. The pack comes complete with a Wallace & Gromit-themed tote bag, a stylish bandana for your canine, and a leaflet guiding families on how to enter the big competition. Crossword enthusiasts can even solve clues featured along the route, bringing a touch of Wallace’s signature wit to the outing.
Holly Firks-Matthews, Visitor Attraction Manager at Westonbirt, said, “We can’t wait to welcome dogs and their owners for their Forest Walkies. Silk Wood is an incredible spot where dogs can exercise, stay healthy, and enjoy enriching sights and smells. It’s about creating joyful moments for both dogs and their humans – an opportunity every dog deserves.”
Aardman’s Senior Brand Manager, Rachael Peacock, shared their excitement too. “Wallace and Gromit are thrilled to be partnering with Forestry England on this cracking campaign. Encouraging families to enjoy the outdoors with their four-legged friends is something Wallace would absolutely love – right alongside donning The Wrong Trousers!”
Nick Giles OBE, Ordnance Survey’s Managing Director for Leisure, added, “This series of dog-walking routes promises fun and adventure for all. We’re delighted to support walkers and their furry companions through our OS Maps app, ensuring a great day out.”
Gromit will also take centre stage as Forestry England’s celeb ambassador, sharing his doggy insights and making appearances throughout the year at various forest events.
Forestry England reminds visitors to adhere to the forest dog code, including keeping dogs close, bagging their waste, and following signage to respect wildlife and other guests.
For more details on dog visits and membership options that benefit the arboretum, visit Forestry England’s Westonbirt page.
Phots: Forestry England/Crown copyright
