LOCATION – SLIMBRIDGE

SLIMBRIDGE UPDATE – COVID19

I have just returned from my first post Covid visit to WWT Slimbridge. The reserve is open again with most of he facilities and hides open for use. There is restricted access to the site so you will need to book in advance and the hides that are open have limits on the number of people allowed in at any one time. Also you have to wear a mask whenever you are inside a public building or hide.

If my experience is anything to go on , this shouldn’t hinder you in any way. Extra cleaning was in evidence and there was definitely less people around the site. Extra hand washing facilities are in place along with hand sanitizers .

SLIMBRIDGE

Slimbridge, was the first of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust centres to open in 1946. The founder and driving force , Sir Peter Scott was one of the early pioneers of modern wildlife conservation as well as a former Olympic sailing medalist, renowned broadcaster and painter. The WWT now has nine centres in the U.K. And undertakes research and conservation projects all around the world.

A haven for both British and migrating bird species, Slimbridge has long been an important resource for both conservationists and bird watching. It’s also a fantastic location for any wildlife photographer. With a chance to get up close to a wide variety of birds , habitat’s and much more, Slimbridge is a great location to practice you photographic skills .

Slimbridge covers some 2,000 acres of grass, reeds, marshland and water . The centre has numerous hides offering great vantage points to photograph from with the added benefit of being able to escape the British weather. With a centre this large and popular, it’s still possible to escape the crowds for a little peace and quiet, time to concentrate on composing the perfect picture. The site has fantastic facilities, and is easily accessible with a good range of flat paths and ramps. Add in good on site parking , a truly fantastic visitor centre and reasonable admission prices , the centre makes a great day out for any budding wildlife photographer.

It’s not just the rare British or migrating birds either. Slimbridge offers the chance to get up close and personal to some of our more common feathered friends . The centre is open 364 days of the year , opening times change with the season so it’s always a good idea to check with the website, which has a lot of great information to help plan your visit. The website has a useful section dedicated just to photographers with helpful tips to improve you wildlife photos. The centre also offers a special package for photography groups , again more information is on the website.