New Family Sculpture Trail Opens At Robinswood Hill In Gloucester

This week Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust (GWT) and Gloucester City Council launch a new visitor attraction at Robinswood Hill, a much-loved country park and local landmark.

A new pathway has been installed, which incorporates a sculpture-themed play trail celebrating the wildlife and heritage of the Hill. Ten specially-commissioned wooden sculptures, including carved binoculars, a well and pine martens, have been placed along the route for families to discover.

All of the sculptures have been created by a local chainsaw carver, from a 170 year old oak tree that recently fell down at Robinswood Hill.

The new path takes in some of the woodland and meadow areas that the Hill has to offer, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views over the county and experience Gloucestershire’s special wildlife.

Nicola Simpson, GWT’s Head of Engagement and Learning, said:

“We’re so excited to launch the new Wild Explorer trail at Robinswood Hill and look forward to welcoming regular and new visitors alike. An accompanying trail activity sheet, as well as scannable QR codes fixed to each sculpture, will enable visitors to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Hill’s history, what species call it home and ways that they can get involved.” 

A spokesperson from Gloucester City Council said:

“We are delighted to have been able to part fund this project alongside our partners. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust have done a great job in delivering the trail and sculptures, which capture the spirit of Robinswood Hill. The new trail is in an accessible part of the Hill and is pushchair friendly, allowing more of our residents to connect with nature and discover wildlife.”

The path can also be accessed using GWT’s all-terrain mobility scooter, available to hire from the visitor hub next to the car park.

The new sculpture trail will be officially launched at an event on Thursday 24 February, during the school half term holidays. The event is free and there will be children’s craft activities available, as well as the chance to listen to stories recorded by the local community about what makes Robinswood Hill special, on new audio boxes in the café.

This work has been generously funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (RPA funding), Gloucester City Council, Gloucestershire Ramblers and Gloucestershire Gateway Trust.