Sensory bags help visitors make the most their visit to Westonbirt Arboretum

Forestry England and Westonbirt, The National Arboretum are determined to ensure that that everyone feels welcome and comfortable when visiting their forests. This includes neurodiverse visitors with specific needs. 

Image: Sensory bags at Westonbirt Arboretum

People with neurodiverse sensory needs may experience and process sensory input such as noise, light, touch, movement, and visual clutter in different ways. In open environments like open‑plan offices, classrooms, museums, or public spaces, these sensory inputs can be overwhelming or distracting.

Westonbirt Arboretum has developed ‘Sensory Bags’ that visitors can now book and use for free, returning them at the end of the visit. These bags have been specially designed to support visitors with sensory needs and enhance their experience in nature.

A visitor who used one of the bags said:

“My family visited Westonbirt today and picked up the sensory bags you provide for those families who could benefit from a more sensory experience. My youngest son is Autistic. We decided to make use of your sensory bags and were delighted with what was provided to help him engage with his environment. We appreciated how much consideration and thought went into these bags. It was lovely to have items which reflected the natural and nature aspect of Westonbirt.”

Each bag includes a selection of calming and engaging items such as noise-reducing headphones, visual aids and a weighted blanket.

To find out more, see https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/sensory-bag.