IMG
© Stephen Matthews

Abbotsbury Swannery

50.65763 , -2.60139

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK)

Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl.

The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicholas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve.

The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwit. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets regular visitors, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings.

The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only around 170 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.

Delete exact location

The introductory text should contain general information about the site, which may include for instance:
• geographic/ biogeographic location
• habitat and vegetation
• typical bird species/bird communities
• protection status
• land use and history
• importance for birdwatching

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 50.6576/-2.6014 (2023-09-22 13:09:56 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 50.6576/-2.6014 (2023-05-11 12:46:05 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 50.6576/-2.6014 (2023-05-11 12:06:22 )

Coordinates were changed by Mathias Ritschard (Admin) : 50.6576/-2.6014 (2022-10-12 21:49:06 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 50.6744/-3.1142 (2022-10-12 19:58:53 )

Coordinates were set by Stephen Matthews : 50.6551/-2.6023 (2022-10-12 19:36:35 )

Site name was set by Stephen Matthews as "Abbotsbury Swannery" (2022-10-12 19:36:35 )

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-16 11:55:18
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicholas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwit. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets regular visitors, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only around 160 170 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-09-24 09:52:52
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Nicholas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwit. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets regular visitors, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only around 160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-09-22 13:09:57
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwit. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets regular visitors, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 around 160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-09-22 13:09:13
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits.Godwit. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets regular visitors, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 06:30:06
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets regular passage migrants, visitors, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 06:01:03
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little Egrets are now resident and Cattle Egrets are now resident, regular passage migrants, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 05:59:02
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident now resident, following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself has recorded some 270 species over 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:46:05
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself has recorded some 268 270 species over 30 34 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:22:12
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a unique brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:20:13
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Nature Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:19:45
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:18:04
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a long shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:16:49
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of bird birds using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:06:22
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of bird using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:21:13
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Waders often include Northern Lapwing, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwits. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of bird using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:04:28
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit.  spit or 'tombolo'. The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding mute swans and other waterfowl. The Swannery was established during the 1040s by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, where swans were farmed for food. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, but the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church and the breeding of swans has continued under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. The site is now part of the larger Fleet and Chesil Reserve. The lagoon provides ideal sheltered habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding warblers Reed and Cetti's Warblers as well as Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species but this species, which greatly underestimates the diversity of bird using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 19:04:51
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit.  The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding swans and other waterfowl. The lagoon provides ideal habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard Buzzard, Red Kite and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Catte Cattle Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding warblers and Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species but this greatly underestimates the diversity.diversity of bird using the site. Veteran birder Steve Groves himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve. Visitors may consult his blog "Steve's Swannery Sightings" for recent news and records.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 18:08:34
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit.  The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding swans and other waterfowl. The lagoon provides ideal habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Catte Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding warblers and Reed Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species but this greatly underestimates the diversity. Veteran birder Steve Groves himselg himself recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 18:08:19
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit.  The Swannery includes ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding swans and other waterfowl. The lagoon provides ideal habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Catte Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding warblers and Reed Buntings.Buntings. The relatively sparse records on eBird amount to only 150-160 species but this greatly underestimates the diversity. Veteran birder Steve Groves himselg recorded some 268 species over 30 years working at the reserve.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 09:55:09
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a brackish lagoon which extends southeast as far as for some 14km before flowing into the sea at Ferrybridge near Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit.  The Swannery includes a pond surrounded by ponds, reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding swans and other waterfowl. The lagoon provides ideal habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. Little and Catte Egrets are resident following their recent colonization of Britain. The reed beds have breeding warblers and Reed Buntings, while Bearded Reedlings are occasionally seen.Buntings.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-12 19:58:53
Abbotsbury Swannery is located at the west end of the Fleet, a lagoon which extends southeast as far as Weymouth. The Fleet is separated from the sea by Chesil Beach, a shingle spit.  The Swannery includes a pond surrounded by reed beds, fields and riparian woodland as well as facilities for breeding swans and other waterfowl. The lagoon provides ideal habitat for ducks and geese, grebes, gallinules and waders. Raptors including Eurasian Marsh Harrrier, Common Buzzard and Kestrel are commonly seen, while Osprey occur on migration. The reed beds have breeding warblers and Reed Buntings, while Bearded Reedlings are occasionally seen.

List up to ca. 25 species that:
• have a limited distribution range and/or are rare on a global level
• are most sought-after by birdwatchers at this site
• and are relatively easy to see at this site (year-round or seasonally)

Brant (Branta bernicla)
Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila)
Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator)
Eared Grebe (Podiceps nigricollis)
Mediterranean Gull (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus)
Sandwich Tern (Thalasseus sandvicensis)
Western Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)
Cetti's Warbler (Cettia cetti)
Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-06-11 06:17:25)

Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-06-11 06:16:41)

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-05-11 12:34:24)

Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-13 22:01:55)

Brant (Branta bernicla) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:18:19)

Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:17:25)

Cetti's Warbler (Cettia cetti) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:17:09)

Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:16:54)

Western Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:15:40)

Mediterranean Gull (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:15:29)

Sandwich Tern (Thalasseus sandvicensis) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:15:08)

Eared Grebe (Podiceps nigricollis) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-10-12 20:14:49)

The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich and Little Terns breed nearby. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Brant, Pintail, Shoveler, Teal, Garganey and Greater Scaup joining the resident Mute Swans, Pochards, Tufted Ducks and Mallards.

The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take anything from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is minimal tidal variation here because the tidal flow barely reaches the Swannery area.

Give recommendations for making your visit as productive as possible.
This may include for instance:
• best season
• best time of the day
• how much time to spend at the site
• best means of locomotion within the site
• recommended routes / areas within the site
• guiding

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-03-14 14:25
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich and Little Terns breed nearby. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Brant, Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Teal, Garganey and Greater Scaup joining the resident Mute Swans, Pochards, Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take anything from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is minimal tidal variation here because the tidal flow barely reaches the Swannery area.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 06:11
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich and Little Terns breed nearby and are often seen.nearby. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Brant, Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans, Pochards, Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take anything from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is minimal tidal variation here because the tidal flow barely reaches the Swannery area.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 06:09
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Brant, Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans, Pochards, Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take anything from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little minimal tidal variation here.here because the tidal flow barely reaches the Swannery area.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-02 13:55
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Brant, Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans, Pochards, Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take anything from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little tidal variation here.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-02 06:30
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans,Tufted Swans, Pochards, Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little tidal variation here.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:07
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Reed Buntings, Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans,Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little tidal variation here.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-10 13:48
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans,Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take from an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little tidal variation here.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 13:57
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Reed Buntings, Savi's Cetti's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans,Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, consisting of a and birders will want to explore the whole network of paths. A satisfying visit would take an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little tidal variation here.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 13:38
The site is rewarding at all seasons. In summer, Common Terns breed at the Swannery, while Sandwich Terns breed nearby and are often seen. Reed Buntings, Savi's and Reed Warblers also breed in the reedbeds. In winter, waterfowl are more diverse, with species such as Pintail, Shoveler, Teal and Garganey joining the resident Mute Swans,Tufted Ducks and Mallards. The area open to visitors is quite small, consisting of a network of paths. A satisfying visit would take an hour and a half to two hours. Although the Fleet is partly tidal, there is little tidal variation here.

Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester, Weymouth or Bridport. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument on Black Down may be recommended. From Weymouth, one can drive via Chickerell and Portesham. On reaching Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery.

Bus number 53X from Weymouth or Bridport stops at Abbotsbury, from where it is a short and pleasant walk to the Swannery.

Explain from where and how to get to this site with private and public transport.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-08 02:41
Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester, Weymouth or Bridport. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument on Black Down may be recommended. From Weymouth, one can drive via Chickerell and Portesham. On reaching Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery. Bus number 53X from Weymouth or Bridport stops at Abbotsbury, from where it is a short and pleasant walk to the Swannery.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-08 02:39
Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester Dorchester, Weymouth or Weymouth.Bridport. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument may be recommended. From Weymouth, one can drive via Chickerell and Portesham. On reaching Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery. Bus number 53X from Weymouth or Bridport stops at Abbotsbury, from where it is a short and pleasant walk to the Swannery.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-10 13:49
Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester or Weymouth. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument is to may be recommended. From Weymouth, one can drive via Chickerell and Portesham. On reaching Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery. Bus number 53X from Weymouth or Bridport stops at Abbotsbury, from where it is a short and pleasant walk to the Swannery.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:12
Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester or Weymouth. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument is to be recommended. From Weymouth, one can drive via Chickerell and Portesham. On reaching Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery. Bus number 53X from Weymouth or Bridport stops at Abbotsbury.Abbotsbury, from where it is a short and pleasant walk to the Swannery.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 22:07
Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester or Weymouth. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument is to be recommended. From Weymouth, one can drive via Chickerell and Portesham. From On reaching Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery.Swannery. Bus number 53X from Weymouth or Bridport stops at Abbotsbury.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 13:20
Abbotsbury can be reached from Dorchester or Weymouth. From Dorchester, a scenic route via Poundbury, Martinstown and the Hardy Monument is recommended. From Weymouth, via Chickerell and Portesham. From Abbotsbury, turn south on Church street following signs to the Swannery.

The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party of visitors includes disabled or elderly people, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk.

The regular entry fee is  £12.50 for adults. Reservations may be made online, which would be advisable during the busiest summer months. A combined ticket allows visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens (one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants) on the same day or on consecutive days. 

Provide information on how to enter this site, which may include:
• entry points
• entry permits / entry tickets and fees
• opening hours / opening season
• other restrictions

Note that this section should only contain information on how to ACCESS (= enter) a site. Info on how to REACH a site should be added to "How to get there" section.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-20 12:28
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party of visitors includes disabled or elderly people, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is  £12.50 for adults. Reservations may be made online, which would be advisable during the busiest summer months. A combined ticket may be available allowing visitors allows visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens (one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants) on the same day or on consecutive days. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 06:23
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party of visitors includes disabled or elderly people, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is  £12.50 for adults. Reservations may be made online, which would be advisable during the busiest summer months. A combined ticket allows may be available allowing visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens (one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants) on the same day or on consecutive days. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:33
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party of visitors includes disabled or elderly people, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds is  £12.50 for adults. Reservations may be made online, which would be advisable during the busiest summer months. A combined ticket allows visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens (one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants) on the same day or on consecutive days. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-10 13:55
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party of visitors includes disabled or elderly visitors, people, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds for adults. Reservations may be made online, which would be advisable during the busiest summer months. A combined ticket allows the visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens (one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants) on the same day or on consecutive days. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-10 13:53
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party includes disabled or elderly visitors, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds for adults. Reservations may be reserved made online, which would be advisable during the busy busiest summer months. A combined ticket allows the visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens, one Gardens (one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants.Pheasants) on the same day or on consecutive days. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:11
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party includes disabled or elderly visitors, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds for adults. Reservations may be reserved online, which would be advisable during the busy summer months. A combined ticket allows the visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens, which have one of the few remaining locations in Britain with free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 21:49
The main entry point is at the car park on New Barn Road. From here, there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party includes disabled or elderly visitors, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds for adults. A combined ticket allows the visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens, which have free-roaming Golden and Lady Amherst's Pheasants. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 13:26
The main entry point is at the car park. park on New Barn Road. From here, one walks there is a walk of 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party includes disabled or elderly visitors, vehicles may be driven directly to the swannery. swannery, avoiding the 400m walk. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds for adults. A combined ticket allows the visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens, which have free-roaming Golden Pheasants. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-12 20:11
The main entry point is at the car park. From here, one walks 400m through some fields to reach the swannery which is enclosed by a wall. When a party includes disabled or elderly visitors, vehicles may be driven to the swannery. The regular entry fee is 12 pounds for adults. A combined ticket allows the visitors to enter both the Swannery and the nearby Tropical Gardens, which have free-roaming Golden Pheasants. 

Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer.

The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by many casual visitors as well as naturalists. There are some educational exhibits on the history and natural history of the area. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens, or craft shops and tearooms in the village of Abbotsbury.

Children may enjoy the feeding times (typically 1200 and 1600) when they are invited to help feed the swans.

To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, which can be booked through the Dorset Wildlife Trust website.

Add information about other attractions at this site, including
• wildlife (apart from birds)
• sights (natural, cultural, archaeological, etc.)
• activities (e.g. for non-birding companions)

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-11 05:55
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by many casual visitors as well as naturalists. There are some educational exhibits on the history and natural history of the area. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens, or craft shops and tearooms in the village of Abbotsbury. Children may enjoy the feeding times (typically 1200 and 1600) when they are invited to help feed the swans. To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, managed by which can be booked through the Dorset Wildlife Trust.Trust website.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-10 13:58
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by many casual visitors as well as naturalists. There are some educational exhibits on the history and natural history of the area. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens. Gardens, or craft shops and tearooms in the village of Abbotsbury. Children may enjoy the feeding times (typically 1200 and 1600) when they are invited to help feed the swans. To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-01-10 13:57
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by many casual visitors as well as naturalists. There are some educational exhibits on the history and natural history of the area. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens. Children may enjoy the feeding times (typically 1200 and 1600) when they are invited to help feed the swans. To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:17
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by many casual visitors as well as naturalists. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens. Children may enjoy the feeding times (tyoically (typically 1200 and 1600) when they are invited to help feed the swans. To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:17
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by many casual visitors as well as naturalists. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens . Gardens. Children may enjoy the feeding times (tyoically 1200 and 1600) when they are invited to help feed the swans. To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-20 14:08
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by casual visitors as well as naturalists. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens .Gardens . To explore the eastern end of the Fleet, visitors can board a boat, the Fleet Explorer, managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 21:49
Sika Deer, Roe Deer and Otters are seen in the area. A range of dragonflies and butterflies are present in summer. The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by casual visitors as well as naturalists. Alternatively, non-birding companions could explore the nearby Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens .
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-12 20:00
The site is scenic and peaceful, enjoyed by casual visitors as well as naturalists.

There is an observation platform and a hide overlooking the Fleet. Another platform at the west end of the reserve has information panels on the wildlife and ecology of the site.

A cafe and restrooms are available near the ticket office. The Cherries Cafe at the Abbey may be recommended for serious coffee and cakes, while the Swan Inn on the main road in Abbotsbury offers crab lunches and other pub fare according to the season.

Provide information about what type of facilities are available at
or near this site, including:
• information centers / information points
• catering
• accommodation
• hides and watchtowers
• restrooms / toilets

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-02 14:10
There is an observation platform and a hide overlooking the Fleet. Another platform at the west end of the reserve has information panels on the wildlife and ecology of the site. A cafe and restrooms are available near the ticket office. The Cherries Cafe at the Abbey may be recommended for serious coffee and cakes, while the Swan Inn on the main road in Abbotsbury offers crab lunches and other pub fare in according to the season.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-06-02 14:09
There is an observation platform and a hide overlooking the Fleet. Another platform at the west end of the reserve has information panels on the wildlife and ecology of the site. A cafe and restrooms are available near the ticket office. The Cherries Cafe at the Abbey Abbey may be recommended for serious coffee and the  cakes, while the Swan Inn on the main road in Abbotsbury may be recommended for refreshments.offers crab lunches and other pub fare in season.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-05-11 12:30
There is an observation platform and a hide overlooking the Fleet. Another platform at the west end of the reserve has information panels on the wildlife and ecology of the site. A cafe and restrooms are available near the ticket office. The Swan Inn and Cherries Cafe at the Abbey and the  Swan Inn on the main road in Abbotsbury may be recommended for refreshments.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-13 22:14
There is an observation platform and a hide overlooking the Fleet. Another platform at the west end of the reserve has information panels on the wildlife and ecology of the site. A cafe and restrooms are available near the ticket office. The Swan Inn and Cherries Cafe may be recommended for refreshments.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-10-12 20:05
There is an observation platform and a hide overlooking the Fleet. Another platform at the west end of the reserve has information panels on the wildlife and ecology of the site. A cafe and restrooms are available near the ticket office.

Dogs are not allowed.

Are there any security issues or other annoyances at this site? For
instance, these may include:
• offenses like robbery or theft
• natural hazards
• dangerous or annoying animals or plants (mosquitoes, leaches, thorn bushes, etc.)
• noise pollution

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-20 12:27
Dogs are not allowed.
All information about this site was contributed by Orniverse users. Neither Orniverse nor the contributors accept responsibility for the completeness and accuracy of the information provided.

Local guides


No local guides yet

Gallery


Reports

Season:
to
Species:
no reports found
Abbotsbury Swannery - Orniverse