A Generous Gift for a Lasting Legacy
Dartington Trust has been fortunate to receive a generous donation to fund the planting of 100 trees, marking 100 years since the Elmhirst family’s arrival at Dartington. These trees will be planted throughout Aller Park Field, a location which, for many years, has served as a place of recreation and quiet reflection for the Dartington community.
Head Gardener Neville Evans, who has been closely involved in the planning and selection of the species, explains that the trees will be planted following the desire lines of the field. This approach will ensure that the trees create a natural, meandering walk that leads from Lower Drive to Aller Park. The field will remain fully accessible to dog walkers and visitors, allowing all to enjoy the beauty of the trees as they mature over the years.
Celebrating the Elmhirst Legacy
The new Centenary Arboretum will celebrate the values that Leonard and Dorothy Elmhirst instilled at Dartington. Their vision for the estate was nothing short of ambitious – they sought to create a place where art, agriculture, and education could intersect and thrive together. The couple invited artists, musicians, and intellectuals to the estate, creating a dynamic and progressive community that was far ahead of its time.
In keeping with this legacy, the planting at Aller Park Field pays tribute to both the past and the future. The backbone of the new arboretum is composed of North American tree species, honouring Dorothy’s American heritage and her deep connection to the landscapes of her homeland. While much of the estate is dedicated to native species, many of which are currently struggling to adapt to the challenges of climate change, the selection of trees for the Centenary Arboretum has been made with climate resilience in mind. The trees chosen, including Liquidambar, North American Maples (Acer), and Tulip Trees, have been selected not only for their beauty but also for their ability to thrive in Dartington’s changing climate.
Autumn’s Kaleidoscope of Colour
One of the most exciting aspects of the new arboretum will be its stunning autumn display. Head Gardener Neville Evans has carefully chosen a broad range of species known for their vibrant autumn colour, ensuring that the arboretum will be a visual feast during the fall months for years to come. The goal is to create a landscape that continues to evolve, with the trees offering a burst of red, orange, and golden hues as the seasons change.
“The trees have been planted to give them space to grow, be admired, and form a kaleidoscope display in the autumns for the next 100 years,” says Neville Evans. “We are committed to enhancing the project annually, adding more trees to the arboretum and supporting its ongoing development and maintenance. This is a living, growing project that will be part of Dartington’s landscape for generations to come.”
Looking Ahead: A Call for Support
The Centenary Arboretum is just the beginning. Dartington Trust has committed to making this a long-term project, adding more trees to the arboretum each year. The Trust is also calling on the local community and supporters to help fund future plantings and the ongoing care and maintenance of the arboretum. Those interested in contributing to this exciting project can make a donation to support the wider landscape and estate via the Dartington Trust website.
As the trees grow and the landscape evolves, the Centenary Arboretum will serve as a living testament to the Elmhirst family’s vision, their commitment to sustainability, and the enduring spirit of Dartington. Whether you’re a dog walker enjoying the peaceful surroundings, a visitor captivated by the changing colours of the trees, or someone looking to honour the Elmhirst legacy, this new addition to Dartington Estate will undoubtedly become a cherished part of the grounds for many years to come.
For more information on how to donate or to find out more about the Centenary Arboretum, visit Dartington.org/donate.
