The Remarkable World of Trees

From wildlife to wellbeing trees play a central role in all our lives. During 2020 and 2021 lockdown walks encouraged lots of us to get out into the countryside and see trees, hedges and fields from a new angle. 

Inspired by Kate Bretherton's book, The Remarkable Trees of St Albans, this exhibition explored the world of trees from the soil they grow in to the insects, birds and animals that call them home. We hope it can give you lots of ideas of how you can help trees, hedgerows and our whole environment:

Trees for our planet

We know trees are crucial for our survival – but why are they so important? What parts of the trees play which roles and what can we do to support sustainability? The exhibition allowed visitors to investigate a tree trunk up close, discover the Wood Wide Web and explore how trees and hedges in our back gardens and streets can make all the difference to the world.

Trees for your wellbeing

The pandemic taught us the wonder of going for a local walk. The exhibition sort to explain, to children and adults, the benefits of being amongst trees to both your mind and body. We looked at trees from a different angle through music, poetry and art created by local artists.

Trees as your career

Working with trees is a career option for anyone – often bringing a mix of outside working, traditional and modern skills and a great sense of achievement.

What can you do?

The museum invited the public to explore the exhibition and see what you can do; for our planet, for wildlife, for yourself and our future. To think about what we buy and how we use money to help, or hurt, trees and hedges. Even in the smallest garden, a log pile can help support your local wildlife and if you don’t have a garden at all discover the importance of window boxes.