WT4 - WALK: Bath's treescape - From Warmth to Wellbeing

Before urban trees were planted in Bath many saw trees simply as a source of firewood. Today, many people enjoy a sense of wellbeing among the street trees of our city. This walk will reveal the history of the City’s trees and green spaces, the ways they have been appreciated, and how the planting or removal of trees in Bath has excited the passions of its citizens.

Walkers will hear new insights into the history of the trees in the Circus, see the locations of Bath’s first street trees and find out about landmark trees, such as those in Abbey Green and Kingsmead Square. Conkers, student protests, chimney sweeps and women carrying concealed billhooks all play a part in the story of Bath’s trees.

Led by Bath’s own urban tree specialists, there will be time to learn about the types of tree that have proved popular in Bath’s streets and the mistakes that were made along the way. Participants will gain their own appreciation of how this UNESCO World Heritage site has benefited from its trees through three centuries.