Explore the trees of Whiteknights with new online guide

A new interactive website offers a way to enjoy and learn about the extraordinary range of trees on the main campus of the University of Reading. 

More than 850 trees and 320 species appear on the site, in 9,000 photos. They show the variety of trees that grow at Whiteknights, in all seasons, including details such as leaves and bark. Visitors, staff and students on campus can use the website to identify the trees or take a specially-designed tour.

The website is being launched as part of the University of Reading centenary celebrations in 2026. 

Professor Jonathan Gregory, who has worked since 2003 as a climate scientist in the Department of Meteorology, took the photos and built the site as a spare-time project. He said: "It’s taken several years, starting just before the pandemic. I find wandering around to take the photos a relaxing and happy activity. 

“My initial aim was to help others to recognise native tree species, because that was a wonderful experience for me in my twenties. It turned the countryside from a sea of green into a gathering of familiar characters. If you think any of the trees were misidentified, please let me know!”

“The natural beauty everywhere in Whiteknights is just wonderful. Some of my favourite trees are in quiet corners, like the magnificent hickory (Carya ovata) in the triangle south of the Miller and Wager buildings. The open spaces provide good views too, at all times of year.”

In the early 19th century, Whiteknights Park was the estate of the Marquis of Blandford, a botany enthusiast. Some of the trees, both native and exotic, have stood here since those times. From the mid-19th century until the University arrived in 1947, it was the grounds of six Victorian mansions, four of which still exist as university buildings.

During the 80 years of its ownership, the University has preserved and developed the natural beauty and character of the campus by employing gardeners and arborists to take care of the trees and the variety of landscapes, including the open spaces, the lake, the Harris Garden and the Wilderness. 

The Whiteknights campus welcomes local residents and visitors to enjoy its Green Flag-awarded grounds all year-round.

View the guide, which includes suggested walking routes around campus.

Images (credit Jonathan Gregory): 

Top: Left to right: silver fir, common juniper, dawn redwood. Middle: Mount Etna broom. Bottom: Cherry tree