SEND Family Day
Explore Martin Mere and take part in exclusive activities just for SEND families on 13 June 2026, and carers and under 3s go free.
SEND Family Day at Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a calm and inclusive experience designed especially for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Booking is essential for this event (even for WWT members):
Activity line-up included in your ticket:
- Early access from 9am
- Exclusive access to the wet play area from 9-10am
- Quiet drop-in pond dipping sessions (10-11:30am)
- Quiet drop-in bug hunting sessions (1-2:30pm)
- All day: book corner in Greenwood
- All day: sensory items in Greenwood – interactive handling (feathers/nature etc.). Come and see moths up close here at 10am!
Keep checking back for added activities such as singalong and storytelling sessions!
We will also be running 20-minute relaxed boat tours between 10:30am and 12pm, for £2 per seat (carers go free). Please call us on 01704 895181 to arrange a booking with us.
Accessibility Guides
Please check out our accessibility page for our visual story, accessibility guide, and video if you’d like to know more before your visit.
FAQs
Do carers go free?
Yes, any carers that are needed will be admitted for free at WWT Martin Mere with a paying visitor (or member).
Do WWT members go free?
Yes, WWT members go free to this event. Booking is essential even if you’re a WWT member, but you will see a free member ticket available to you when booking. You will be asked to show your membership card on the day of your visit along with your tickets.
Is there an age limit to this SEND day?
No - anyone that would benefit from this SEND day is welcome to join us.
Is there free parking?
Yes, we have free parking available on site which is next to our main entrance.
Why are you running a SEND day?
We’ve heard feedback that families with members who have additional needs would benefit from things such as more relaxed sessions and sensory experiences. This family SEND day allows us to tailor our activities to offer more suitable sessions, and also trial what works and what doesn’t for those families.
How will you ensure only SEND families have access to these activities?
On arrival, families who have booked a SEND day ticket will be given a wristband to take around with them. Please note that you will not need to wear the wristband, just present it at each of the activities.
Do we also get access to the Living Collection and reserve?
Yes, your ticket will allow you entry around our site, including our Living Collection to see over 70 species of birds like flamingos, storks, cranes, swans, and geese. You will also have access to the reserve to see our amazing wildlife from our hides and reedbed walk.
What proof do I need to bring?
We tend to do this based on trust, but if you would like to bring something along with you for ease of mind, we would accept documentation such as a Blue Badge, DLA/PIP award letter, Access Card, Carer's Allowance or a letter from a GP.
