Beginners' Guide to Tree ID Course

Demonstration / Talk / Lecture
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14
May

RHS Garden Bridgewater, M28 2LJ

RHS Garden Bridgewater, M28 2LJ

Venue

RHS Garden Bridgewater, Learning Studio and Woodland

Booking


  • Other Prices

    £25

Overview

  • Course running time

    Thursday 14 May 2026, 3pm – 5.30pm

  • Skill level

    General

  • Subject

    Demonstration / Talk / Lecture


Have you always wanted to grow your confidence in tree identification? Join RHS Garden Bridgewater Arborists Greg & Erik for the beginner’s guide to tree ID course.
 

This course is for beginners in tree identification, those who want to build confidence in their tree ID, or individuals looking to learn more details from the RHS team and meet like-minded nature enthusiasts.
 

The course will focus on identifying native trees and the most commonly planted exotics in the UK. Our tree experts will guide you to ID trees through recognition of their leaves, bark and growth patterns at different stages in their lifecycle. Although this workshop is in the Spring, the arborist team will provide details on changes expected in different species throughout the seasons.
 

The course will begin in the Learning Studios, providing some of the theory behind tree identification, followed by time exploring the RHS Garden Bridgewater woodland, looking at different tree specimens, and putting theory into practice.
 

Tutors: Greg Douglas-Thorne - Greg has a background rooted in Arboricultural consultancy working for private and commercial clients, later migrating into an Arboriculturist role within the RHS. With a keen interest in urban forest management and a passion for advocating for the positive benefits offered by trees on environmental, social and economic levels
 

Erik Brady - is an arboriculturist at RHS Bridgewater, with a professional background in traditional English woodland management. He has a strong interest in native ecology and climate-resilient planting, and is dedicated to increasing public understanding of tree identification and woodland stewardship.
 

Location and Arrival Information: The workshop will begin in the Learning Studios, situated within the Welcome Building
 

Catering: Please bring along a water bottle, refreshments are not provided at this workshop
 

For this workshop, you will need to:

  • Wear comfortable footwear suitable for strolling off the main pathways
  • Bring a notebook and a pencil for capturing the details of the course
  • A camera to photograph the glorious trees of Bridgewater and their identifying feature


Skill Level: Beginner - I am keen to learn and to develop my experience and confidence



Additional info

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about courses and workshops at RHS Gardens can be found here.

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