Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Slimbridge
Wildlife & Gardens Experience
The WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre is a 100-acre wetland paradise of wide-open spaces. The birdlife at Slimbridge is always on the move and it will change from one month to the next.
In Spring, kingfishers look for nesting sites and it’s a great time to spot them. Warblers will begin to breed, and it’s usual to see lapwing and redshank chicks. During the summer, ducklings, goslings and chicks will appear and migrating birds including sandpiper, green sandpiper and the curlew sandpiper arrive. Autumn is a spectacular time of year to visit. The first of the migratory birds are seen, having flown huge distances. The teal starts arriving and snipe will also often be spotted. The winter months play host to significant bird numbers including Bewick’s swans, bittern, waders and wild wintering ducks, geese, and swans. It’s also when you might be lucky enough to catch an incredible starling murmuration in the skies above as dusk falls.
Various hides are placed about the breathtaking landscape, so you can catch incredible views of animals up close. The heated Peng Observatory is also where you watch feedings take place and learn more about the work that goes on behind the scenes at the Slimbridge Wetland Centre nature reserve.
There are all sorts of ways to explore the beautiful wetlands and wide-open spaces of Slimbridge. Wild Safaris are hosted by the reserve wardens and volunteers and offer behind-the-scenes access to the reserve. You will splash through ditches and walk along the sea wall too. These safaris are weather dependent and cannot be pre-booked. Canoe safaris run from April to September and are also a wonderful way to experience Slimbridge. The trail is one kilometre in length, keep your eyes peeled for dragonflies and water voles, as well as the birdlife. The Estuary Tower Hide is fully accessible and offers unparalleled views of the Severn Estuary. During the winter months more than 30,000 wild birds can be seen taking to the skies. It is no wonder that the WWT founder Sir Peter Scott called Slimbridge the ‘avian Serengeti’.
To note: The Wetlands exist to fulfil founder Peter Scott’s vision of connecting people with nature, so everywhere is accessible to everyone. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted within the grounds.
