WAKE UP TO WILDLIFE

If you want to get off the beaten track, connect with nature and discover more about one of the greatest conservationists of our time, enjoy a break at Slimbridge

RECONNECT WITH NATURE

The inimitable Sir Peter Scott was the ultimate wildlife champion. He founded the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) and co-founded the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), presented one of the first ever natural history programmes on TV and was even hailed as “the patron saint of conservation” by Sir David Attenborough. So how incredible that you’ve now got the chance to stay at Scott House Bewick’s Lodge, his enchanting home in the WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, nestled right in the heart of Gloucestershire.

Ideal for birdwatchers or anyone who wants to reconnect with nature, Bewick’s Lodge is a true wildlife haven. Here you’ll awaken to the sweet sound of birdsong and observe migrating birds such as Mediterranean gulls, white-fronted geese and much more. Plus, with an unrestricted view from Scott’s personal observation tower, you can truly immerse yourself in this rugged landscape. The state-of-the-art observatory has huge picture windows, giving you panoramic views around Slimbridge. So, come rain or shine, you’re sure to spot something extraordinary.

The stylish three-bedroom lodge boasts a luxurious interior, including copies of Scott’s artwork and his ‘thinking panel’, where he exhibited one-of-a-kind drawings, ideas and plans. There’s room for up to six people, making it ideal for a group getaway. What’s more, with a full calendar of events, there’s always lots to see and do at Slimbridge. At Slimbridge’s wildlife photography experience, you can explore the wetlands centre armed with cameras and learn how to take incredible pictures.

You could also spot water voles on a lazy canoe ride or, if you stop by Toad Hall, you could see frogs, toads, newts and salamanders from all over the world, including the Golden Poison Frog from Colombia– perhaps one of the most poisonous animals in the world.

“This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to enjoy all that Slimbridge has to offer whilst walking in the footsteps of Sir Peter Scott and soaking up the life of a celebrated pioneer,” said Gary Haseley-Nejrup, General Manager at WWT Slimbridge.

Overlooking the mesmerising Rushy Lake, Slimbridge is teaming with wildlife all year round, however winter is when it really comes into its own. Amongst the 30,000 other birds here, the rare and endangered Bewick’s swan migrates up to 3,500km from northern Russia every year to spend winter at Slimbridge, making it a must-see destination for keen birdwatchers. The one-of-a-kind excursion, ‘Evening with the Swans’ will allow you to observe a swan feed before enjoying your own feeding time – a delicious twocourse meal in the Kingfisher Kitchen.

Don’t end your trip to Slimbridge without visiting the acclaimed Scott House Museum either. Here you can learn about Scott’s fascinating life, not just as the son of a famous Antarctic explorer, but also as a pioneering wildlife conservationist, Olympic sportsman and navy war hero. Slimbridge is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers filled with adventure. So, get your binoculars ready.