WWT Caerlaverock is changing

We’re making some changes to how we operate, so we can make sure our wetland sites thrive in the future.

For the duration of the winter months, WWT Caerlaverock will open five days a week (Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10am to 4pm), instead of opening every day as we used to. We are planning to return to seven day a week opening in the spring, but exact details and timing of this will be confirmed nearer the time. You can find out what this means for you below.

You’ll also notice that our visitor centre looks a bit different. It is still the main entrance into the wetland reserve, with an admissions desk for members and paying visitors, but our cafe and shop is no longer open.

One of 10 WWT wetland sites, WWT Caerlaverock is WWT's only Scottish site. It is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Ramsar site. It is loved by the local community, and known for its wild, natural feel and open, expansive habitats that can be seen from various observatories, outlooks and hides across the reserve.

All of our wetland sites are at the heart of who we are and what we do at WWT. They’re windows into the wonderful world of wetlands, offering spectacular nature experiences and an opportunity to learn something new. But it’s no secret that we’re all facing challenges because of the cost-of-living crisis.

We have a clear commitment to be financially resilient and sustainable. We know there’s so much more we need to do to restore and protect wetlands and the amazing wildlife that live within them. And to do this, it’s vital we act now.

This process may take some time, and change is never simple or easy. We’re working through plans for what the future of WWT Caerlaverock looks like, and for now, would like to thank you for your patience and understanding.

Use this page to stay up to date with changes and our future plans for WWT Caerlaverock.

Your questions answered

Jump to questions about: Essential information for visitorsWhat’s next for WWT CaerlaverockInformation for members

Essential information for visitors

What days and time is WWT Caerlaverock open?

For the duration of the winter months, we will open five days a week, Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm (last admission at 3pm). The site will be closed to all visitors (including members) on Sunday and Monday.

What does it cost to enter WWT Caerlaverock?

Our admission prices will remain the same. For full details or to buy a ticket online visit.
Please note, there will be no cash accepted at the admissions desk, so visitors paying on the day will need to pay for their tickets by card.

Is there still a visitor centre?

Yes, the visitor centre is still be open, but it looks a bit different. You’ll still enter the wetland reserve through the visitor centre, where there will be an admissions desk for members and paying visitors. You’ll also be able to find out information about the reserve and your visit, as well as use the centre to shelter and eat your own food. However, our cafe and shop is no longer open.

Is there toilet facilities available?

Yes, toilet facilities remain open for all visitors.

Are any catering or refreshments available?

No. There are still be places for you to picnic and visitors are very welcome to bring their own refreshments and packed lunches. Drinking water is available.

Are the hides still open?

Yes, everyone still has full access to our hides.

Are you still running swan feeds over the winter?

Yes, we continue to feed the swans at 1pm every day in the Peter Scott Observatory, and visitors are welcome to come and watch when the site is open. We continue to run our commentated Swan feeds every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 1pm.

What’s next for WWT Caerlaverock

Will there be further changes to Caerlaverock?

We are planning to return to seven day a week opening in the spring, but exact details and timing of this will be confirmed nearer the time. Many of our wetland reserves have different opening hours during the summer and the winter, so please do check our website before you visit in the future to avoid any disappointment.

Are you doing anything to improve the experience for visitors?

Over the last 18 months, we have created lots of new wetlands close to the Glengoyne and Avenue tower hides that are proving popular with wildfowl and waders, bringing flocks of birds closer to our visitors. The interior of our Glengoyne hide has also had an artist’s makeover and new, quieter and more comfortable seating, inviting our visitors to linger that little bit longer as they enjoy the view.

Is there a chance WWT Caerlaverock will close permanently?

No. WWT Caerlaverock will remain one of WWT’s wetland reserves. Members and supporters will still be able to visit and experience its incredible wildlife spectacles throughout the year and, by closing some of the facilities we currently offer, we will be able to focus our investment and efforts on making sure WWT Caerlaverock is the best wetland it can be for the benefit of wildlife and people into the future.

Information for members

What does all this mean for my membership?

Your membership still allows you free access to WWT Caerlaverock when it’s open and our other nine wetland sites across the UK. You will also continue to receive invites to exclusive online events with our wetland experts and member newsletters direct to your inbox, providing you with all the latest wetland news.

Why did you freeze membership prices last year if you're now having to close Caerlaverock’s visitor centre?

We have to carefully balance the cost-of-living challenges that we face as an organisation, with those that our members and visitors face. We’ve listened to our members and frozen membership prices to ensure more people can afford to join and stay with us as members during this difficult economic climate.

Will you be offering members refunds?

As a charity, we can’t do our work without the incredible support of our members and supporters, and we want to thank every single person who visits our sites, engages with our work and is helping us create a movement to protect our superpowered wetlands for generations to come.
In line with our membership terms and conditions, we won’t be offering refunds. For more details please visit Membership terms and conditions or contact our supporter services team at supporter@wwt.org.uk.

Can I cancel my membership?

We are grateful for the continued support of every one our members and hope that these changes don’t result in cancellations. However, we understand that change isn’t easy and won’t work for everyone. If you would like to cancel your membership, please contact our supporter services team at supporter@wwt.org.uk.

Can I do more to support WWT Caerlaverock and the work you do?

From volunteering and donating, to sharing our story and visiting our sites, there are many ways that you can support our work that we do to restore wetlands and unlock their powers. Find out more.