Slimbridge WWT is one of 10 Wetland Centres throughout the UK and Ireland. Slimbridge is the original WWT and is our most local to Bristol. It is based in Gloucestershire, GL2 and around a 40-45 minute drive down the M5. WWT stands for Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and is a registered Charity dedicated to protecting birds and their wetland habitats. There is plenty to do and see at Slimbridge WWT from exploring on wild safaris to a more tame walk along the River Severn viewing platform and a multitude of play areas for children. There is something for everyone.
The animals at Slimbridge WWT are mainly birds, including ducks, geese and flamingos but there are also other animals such as otters and frogs and toads in “Toad Hall”. I always love watching the flamingos and Arthur enjoyed feeding the ducks on “Swan Lake”.
workshops and activities
Throughout the Summer there is the “Drawn To Water: Quentin Blake” expedition where you can follow seasonal trials throughout Slimbridge using an illustrated guide by Quentin Blake. As part of this there are art and illustration activities for children and adults. This includes activities such as water marbling, colouring, interactive shows to linoprinting and even a 2 hour screenprinting workshop with Andy Kinnear.
play areas and welly boot land
There are two different large outdoor play areas for children including the newly opened “Welly Boot Land”. A change of clothes/waterproofs/wellies are recommended for this area as children get a chance to paddle in the water, play in fountains and build dams in the little river that runs through the play area. There are trampolines, slides and lots of other play equipment, The other outdoor play area has wooden bridges, slides, swings and a sandpit. Arthur at aged 2.5 thoroughly enjoyed both of these play areas. As well as these play areas children (and adults) can go on a canoe safari which looked like so much fun.
There is a large cafe and shop on site. Arthur and I spent a good while browsing in the shop, him at the toys and books and me at the gorgeous gifts and cookbooks/photography books. There is also a selection of beautifully illustrated books and mugs/gifts by Quentin Blake. I regret not picking up a book for Arthur.
tickets for slimbridge wwt
Tickets can be purchased on the day or via the Slimbridge WWT website here. They start at £10.45 and are free for children under 4. You can purchase an annual family membership from as little as £6 per month and go as many times as you like. Perfect if you’re local!