The United Kingdom, comprising Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England, is one of the most visited destinations in Europe. It has a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its architecture, such as castles, estates, and high-end museums and art galleries. It is also characterized by diverse scenery and wildlife, featuring many zoos, safari parks, wildlife parks, and bird parks and centers. These attractions provide a lovely atmosphere for spending time alone or with the family amid nature. At the UK’s bird sanctuaries, you will find friendly and beautiful small birds, large birds of prey, and even relaxing water bodies and landscapes away from the bustle and hustle of the cities. Check out the best bird sanctuaries in the United Kingdom.
To make more time visiting each sanctuary, consider staying in one of the top luxury escapes and treehouse hotels for a few days.
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1. Birdland Park & Gardens, Bourton-on-the-Water
Birdland Park & Gardens, a bird sanctuary in England, offers nine acres of gardens and woodlands for you to explore! You can see over 130 species of birds spread out over 50 aviaries including flamingos, pelicans, cranes, pheasants, hornbills, and so much more! The park also houses the only breeding group of King Penguins in England. Aside from the birds, make sure to keep your eyes open for the hidden dinosaurs on the property. Better yet, head to Dino-Dug, and try to uncover buried fossils.
Birdland Park & Gardens / Tour / Activity
Address: Rissington Rd, Bourton-on-the-Water, Glos, GL54 2BN
Website: Birdland Park & Gardens
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Adult: 12.95 EUR (13.65 USD); Children (3-15): 9.50 EUR (10.02 USD) ; Senior (60+) & Students: 11.95 EUR (12.60 USD); Accompanying Carer: 3 EUR (3.16 USD)
2. Birdworld, Farnham
This bird park offers birds of varying sizes and shapes from giant Emus to tiny, less than palm-sized Zebra Finches. The park is considered the largest bird park in the United Kingdom, with over 26 acres (10.52 hectares) of land area. They are home to two penguin exhibits: Penguin Island and Penguin Beach. The former showcases a colony of Humboldt Penguins and has raised 300 baby penguins since opening. Penguin Beach, on the other hand, has African Penguins, which is an endangered species. The African Penguins share the area with other African bird species.
If you’re interested in owls, Birdworld also features the African Penguins. Terry Pratchett Owl Parliament where you can see snowy owls, Northern white-faced owls, and others.
Birdworld
Address: Birdworld Holt Pound, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4LD, UK
Website: Birdworld
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily); 10am - 4:30pm in the winter
3. The Hudson Memorial Bird Sanctuary, London
The Hudson Memorial Bird Sanctuary, set in the 350-acre (141.6-hectare) Hyde Park, is a beautifully carved memorial, dedicated to Willian Hudson, a 19th-century naturalist and author. At this bird sanctuary in London, you will find incredible small birds such as goldcrests, wren, blackbirds, tits, and robins, and they are best viewed from this eye-catching monument. Strolling around the park, with its walkways and paths with heartwarming views of the rolling grass and meadow, is one of the best things to do here. The Rose Garden is also a must-see, especially if you are with your significant other.
The Hudson Memorial Bird Sanctuary
Address: 395 W Carriage Dr, London W2 2UH, United Kingdom
Website: The Hudson Memorial Bird Sanctuary
Price: Free
4. Festival Park Owl Sanctuary, Ebbw Vale
Festival Park Owl Sanctuary was founded in 1998 as a sanctuary for wild birds that are abandoned or injured falcons, hawks, wild owls, and more, which are later released back into the wild. Today, you will find more than 50 birds of prey from all over the globe, including vultures, eagles, and buzzards. Arm yourself with a camera and take amazing shots with these friendly birds spread around the serene spot. It is a great way to spend time with the whole family. What’s more, entry is free. However, donations are welcomed as they are used to keep the place active and to save more birds.
Festival Park Owl Sanctuary
Address: Festival Park, Victoria, Ebbw Vale NP23 8FP, United Kingdom
Website: Festival Park Owl Sanctuary
Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (daily)
Price: Free
5. WWT London Wetland Centre
WWT London Wetland Centre is a bird park set in the heart of London, is a 105-acre (42.5-hectare) natural reservoir, established in 1946 by Sir Peter Scott, a former enthusiastic hunter. Home to beautiful birds, amphibians, reptiles, and tranquil paths set amidst meadows, pools, and lakes, it is one of the best places in London to appreciate the beauty of nature with your family. Grab your binoculars and head to the peacock tower to get the best views of the birds, enjoy picnicking, allow your kids to play in the Pond Zone adventure areas, and have the times of your life. Some of the birds you can sight here include ducks, grebes, and sparrowhawks, and if you ever get hungry, there is a cafe on site.
WWT London Wetland Centre
Address: Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, London SW13 9WT, United Kingdom
Website: WWT London Wetland Centre
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 19 USD
6. Walthamstow Wetlands, London
Covering an area of 521.4 acres (211 hectares), Walthamstow Wetlands is the largest urban nature reserves and wetland in London. It is complete with 10 water reservoirs, grassland, lakes, waterfalls, and peaceful tracks to spot mammals, wild birds, and teals. You can even visit the Engine House, featuring a reconstructed tower, which houses roosting bats and nesting swifts and the Grade II Listed Coppermill Tower, awarding breathtaking vistas of the city. The Engine House also highlights art displays to admire, as well as a shop, a cafe, and toilets for your convenience.
Walthamstow Wetlands
Address: 2 Forest Rd, London N17 9NH, United Kingdom
Website: Walthamstow Wetlands
Opening hours: 10:30am – 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
7. Tarn Bird Sanctuary, London
Tarn Bird Sanctuary is one of the top places to visit when you want to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature. It’s easily located close to Mottingham Station in southeast London. This beautiful venue boasts sculptures, trees, and wildlife such as heron, baby chicks, and ducks. This park is well-maintained, features a lot of seats, and is very easy to navigate even with your kids. Also, don’t forget to look out for the ice well, situated at the tail-end of the area. Note that dogs are not allowed on site. You will surely appreciate the charm and calmness of this bird sanctuary.
Tarn Bird Sanctuary
Address: 133 Court Road, London SE9 5AQ England
Website: Tarn Bird Sanctuary
Enjoy a beautiful time in nature
The United Kingdom is diverse, and during your stay here, there are endless opportunities to make your stay memorable. From must-visit attractions in the cities, such as ancient castles and museums to the lush countryside and wildlife centers, your vacation is bound to be remarkable. Don’t forget the national parks and famous buildings as well. And if you want to get up close to nature, then spend some time in these best bird sanctuaries in the United Kingdom.
Frequently asked questions about bird sanctuaries in the United Kingdom
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