Summer pond dipping at WWT Arundel

From dragonfly nymphs to back-stroking beetles – discover the magnificent wetland creatures living just below the surface.

Pond dipping is a fun way to meet the incredible insects and awesome amphibians who call our humble ponds home. From spiky dragonfly nymphs and slippery newts to back-stroking beetles and graceful water boatmen, you’ll come face to face with all kinds of weird and wonderful wetland creatures.

Simply book a pond dipping session at the admissions desk when you arrive to see what’s lurking below the murky water. At the Raised Pond we will lend you nets and dipping trays. When you look closely, you’ll discover the pond is full of life! You can even examine your discoveries up close with a magnifying tool and use our ID guide to identify each creature. A friendly member of our Learning Team is always on hand to help.

Extremely popular with children and families, pond dipping is a hands-on way to get closer to nature, make some surprising new discoveries – and learn about different kinds of aquatic animals and wetland habitats.

When can I go pond dipping at WWT Arundel?

Date: Every day during the summer holidays. Wednesday 23 July – Tuesday 2 September 2025.

Time: Pond dipping sessions are available in the morning and afternoon. Check out our ‘What’s On’ board in the Visitor Centre when you arrive for details of timings that day.

Cost: £3 per family/group of 6. Pond dipping sessions can be booked on the day of your visit at our admissions desk.

Pond dipping FAQs

Do I need special kit for pond dipping at WWT Arundel?

You don’t need to bring anything yourself. We provide all the essential pond dipping kit, including:

• Pond nets to collect aquatic life
• Trays to hold and observe your finds
• Magnifying tools to get a closer look at tiny creatures
• ID charts to help identify different species of pond life

This ensures a safe and fun pond dipping experience – perfect for beginners and families to discover more.

Will I get wet while pond dipping at WWT Arundel?

Your hands and arms (up to elbows for little arms) will get a little wet, but the rest of you should stay dry. Our pond dipping areas are:

• Safe and stable, with no risk of falling in
• Dry and mud-free, making it easy to stay clean
• Designed so you can dip your nets into the water from a safe distance

Hand disinfectant gel is available for an easy clean-up afterwards. Hand washing facilities are in the nearby Visitor Centre.

How long do pond dipping sessions last at WWT Arundel?

A typical pond dipping session lasts around 20 minutes. During the session you will have the chance to:

• Explore the pond environment
• Collect, observe different pond life
• Identify the wetland creatures you find using an ID chart or use our spotter guide to get ready before your visit
• Find out more about the amazing hidden wildlife that live in our peaceful ponds

It’s just the right length to have fun, meet some amazing creatures and learn some fascinating facts, but you are welcome to stay longer, during the advertised pond dipping session time.

Is pond dipping free at WWT Arundel?

No, there is a small additional charge of £3.00 per group (up to 6 people). Pond dipping sessions can be booked on the day of your visit at our admissions desk. All the equipment needed, will be waiting for you at the Raised Pond at the start of your session.

Is summer a good time to go pond dipping?

Yes, summer is the best season to enjoy this activity. The warmer months offer perfect conditions for wildlife spotting due to:

• More active pond life – you’re likely to see more of the many species that live in our ponds during this time of year.
• Better weather – it’s easier to stay warm while handling wet wildlife.

Pond dipping is available every day during the school summer holidays from Wednesday 23 July – Tuesday 2 September 2025 at WWT Arundel.

What wildlife can I find when pond dipping at WWT Arundel?

Each pond is home to a unique mix of species, so there’s always something new to see. The underwater wetland creatures you might find include:

• Dragonfly nymphs
• Diving beetles
• Caddisfly larvae
• Water boatmen
• Pond skaters
• Water fleas
• Water snails

We’ll lend you an identification guide so you can learn the names of each creature you discover.

Get ready before your visit and find out more about the most common weird and wonderful wildlife that live in ponds with our spotter guide. After your visit, find out how to attract a cast of comic, dazzling or intriguing wetland creatures to your garden, with our ideas and tips for making a mini pond at home. You don’t need lots of space or equipment, an old sink, metal tub, or a container under your drainpipe can do the job.

How accessible is pond dipping at WWT Arundel?

The route to the Raised Pond is wheelchair, pushchair and mobility scooter friendly.

The edge of the pond is 50 cm above the ground, giving people seated in wheelchairs access to the water.

The Raised Pond is 15 metres from the Visitor Centre, which has handwashing facilities. Hand disinfectant gel is available from a mounted dispenser at the Raised Pond.

For any other accessibility needs, please do get in touch with us. Magnifying glasses and sheets will be available at all pond dipping sessions

• In this section
  • Boat Safaris
  • Coastal Creek & Diving Duck Talk
  • Pelican Cove & Keeper Talk
  • Adventure play area
  • Pond dipping
  • Reedbed Willow Sphere
  • For the family
  • Watching Wildlife
  • Wetland Secrets Plant House
  • Viewing wildlife
  • Photography
  • Reedbed boardwalk