WWT Washington Wetland Centre |
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Explore a diverse mix of wetland, woodland and wildlife reserve at WWT Washington Wetland Centre - one of the North East's biggest conservation success stories.
Set in 45 hectares on the banks of the River Wear, our vibrant site is home to exotic waterbirds, wild waders, beautiful scenery and so much more.
Whatever the season, there's always something to fascinate, inspire and engage people with the wonders of wetland birds & their habitats.
Open 364 days, visitors of all ages can enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters and year-round special events; while helping us to save wildfowl & wetlands for future generations.
In spring, bluebells bloom in Spring Gill Wood, as rare nenes begin nest-building and wild lapwing breed on Wader Meadow. See the largest nesting
colony of grey herons in the region display in the tree tops at Wader Lake.Babies abound in the hazy days of summer, when the insect ponds hum with life and butterflies bask in the peaceful wildflower meadows. Watch wading chicks and young common tern playing on the shoreline or marvel as fluffy ducklings hatch at Waterfowl Nursery.
Bats mate and jays hurriedly bury acorns as autumn creeps in. Waders migrating south stop for fuel on Wader Lake, while other birds are going into their best breeding plumage - changing colour with the leaves.
In winter, hundreds of curlew fly in at dusk to roost alongside redshank. Find bullfinches and great-spotted woodpeckers perching on frosty branches in Hawthorn Wood. Water birds are showing off with displays and courtship rituals.
Don't miss:
1. The chance to get nose to beak with endangered waterbirds at Close Encounters, many of which will eat corn from an outstretched hand. The inquisitive nene (Hawaiian goose) is a favourite with little ones.
2. Spectacular views of colourful bullfinch
and great-spotted woodpecker queuing up to feed at Hawthorn Wood feeding station.3. Breeding avocets and flocks of curlew 500-strong on Wader Lake (in season).
4. The tranquil surroundings of Waterside Cafe. Watch the wild world go by from its windows overlooking the stream area.
5. Fluffy ducklings taking their first wobbly steps at Waterfowl Nursery (May-July).
6. The ancient woodland at Spring Gill and our majestic old oak trees.
7. Our breeding colony of pink Chilean flamingos.
8. Wonderful wildflower meadows - look out for cuckoo flowers, bee orchids and yellow rattle.
9. Splash Zone adventure play area.
10. Our magnificent Eurasian cranes, which strut and preen beneath the cafe windows alongside wigeon, goldeneye, grey wagtail, a flock of barnacle geese & a hunting sparrowhawk.
Get close to nature and learn about the UK's diverse wetlands, their rich wildlife and the importance of WWT's conservation work. WWT Washington Walkabout Guides are on sale in the gift shop, with details of various routes around our grounds. We recommend around three hours for a typical visit.
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Opening Times
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(2009 times)
Open daily 9.30am - 5.00pm (4pm November - March)Closed Christmas Day only. |
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Admission Charges
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(2009 prices)
Please telephone for details.
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Directions
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| East of Washington in Pattinson, four miles from A1(M), one mile from A19. Signposted off A195, A19, A182 and A1231. |
| Show map of WWT Washington Wetland Centre... |
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WWT Washington Wetland Centre Postcode for SatNav: NE38 8LE |
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Nearby Attractions
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North East Aircraft Museum
(2 Miles)*
The North of England's Premier Aviation Collection. Classic aircraft on display include : Avro Vulcan, Hawker Hunter and Falklands veteran - the Pusara. Over 30 aircraft and a collection of aeroengines all under cover. |
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Angel of the North
(4 Miles)*
If you're travelling past Gateshead, whether by car on the A1, or by train on the East coast main line, you can't miss the Angel of the North. |
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Monkwearmouth Station Museum
(5 Miles)*
The museum is housed in an outstanding grade 2* listed 1840s station building commissioned by the famous railway entrepreneur George Hudson. |
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Nearby Hotels
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Nearby Self Catering
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