Slimbridge was the first wetland centre established by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust.
It is the only place in the UK where you can see all six species of flamingo.
The site hosts a famous population of wintering Bewick’s swans that migrate from the Russian Arctic.
Sir Peter Scott, the founder, was an Olympic sailing medalist and a renowned conservationist.
The centre uses a specific 'duck decoy' pipe system, originally designed in the 17th century for trapping wildfowl.
The reserve monitors and tracks migratory birds using sophisticated satellite tagging technology.
It is located within the Severn Estuary, which has the second-highest tidal range in the world.
WWT Slimbridge is a 325-hectare wetland reserve located on the banks of the River Severn in Gloucestershire. Founded by Sir Peter Scott in 1946, it serves as the birthplace of the modern international wildfowl conservation movement. The site features a mix of managed lagoons, wet meadows, and reedbeds that support globally significant populations of migratory birds. Visitors can observe rare species including Bewick’s swans in winter and breeding wading birds in spring. The reserve utilizes specialized hides for birdwatching and features a living wetland theatre. An extensive collection of captive birds from around the world is maintained for conservation and education purposes. It is recognized as a Ramsar site of international importance due to its function as a vital feeding and roosting habitat.
The elevated viewing platforms in the summer lagoons for panoramic shots of the wetlands.
Bring high-quality binoculars to maximize visibility from the hides.
Check the daily 'What's On' board upon arrival for scheduled talks and warden-led feeds.
Wear footwear suitable for muddy or uneven paths, regardless of the season.
Avoid wearing brightly colored or reflective clothing, which can scare away timid wetland species.
Maintain quiet in the hides to avoid startling wildlife; keep dogs on leads in designated areas and avoid entry to restricted conservation zones.
