This month Grayshott Gardeners welcomed Peter Herring, a self confessed “tree nerd” who has been volunteering at Winkworth Arboretum, near Godalming, for over 30 years.  During this time he has guided many groups around the arboretum, sharing his knowledge of the trees growing there.

The arboretum was the brainchild of Dr Wilfred Fox.  Dr Fox trained as a doctor, and became a renowned dermatologist, as well as using his medical skills on the front line in both World Wars.  Alongside his medical career he was Honorary Secretary of the “Roads Beautifying Association” which was established to plant trees along the new trunk roads that were springing up all over the country in the 1930s and 40s.

However, beautifying roads was just the start of his ambition. He bought land around his country house, Winkworth Farm, and in 1937 started to enhance the planting of trees for autumn colour.  He roped in friends and relations for tree planting parties, and the arboretum started to take shape.  When he retired he pursued his passion for horticulture, and set about planting for other seasons, so there is now always something to see, no matter what time of year.

Now in the hands of the National Trust, Winkworth Arboretum is one of our local gems.  It was lovely to find out how it came to be, and to follow its development over the years.  Our next visits will be richer for knowing the back story to this wonderful place.