See nature in close-up action as hides reopen

Wildlife watchers can see nature up close and in comfort once more, as the hides at WWT Washington Wetland Centre reopen to visitors.

With government restrictions lifting on 17 May, the hides at Hawthorn Wood, Wader Lake and the saline lagoon will welcome people back for the first time since last summer.

Hide partitions Ian Henderson WWT.jpgSocial distancing, limited numbers, mask wearing and Perspex screens dividing the hides into household areas will be in place, keeping everyone safe and allowing you to use the shared space with confidence.

And right now, with spring blooming all around our 103-acre site, there’s never been a better time to witness wildlife in action, including elaborate courtship rituals, nest building and hatching young.

Centre manager Gill Pipes said: “We know how important the hides are to so many of our visitors – from birdwatchers and photographers to young first-time enthusiasts or just anyone wanting to escape the unpredictable British weather – and we can’t wait for people to return to them.

“We have traditional wooden hides looking out onto habitats crammed full of spectacular wildlife at Wader Lake and Hawthorn Wood, as well as the larger discovery hide at the Saline Lagoon for a more panoramic view.

“As spring turns to summer, this is a fantastic time to spot birds such as avocet and common tern on Wader Lake and our hides offer stunning close-up viewing opportunities as well as some of the best chances to get great wildlife shots.”

Washington Wetland Centre has been accredited with the ‘Good to Go’ stamp of approval, which means the site is operating within government guidelines and public health guidance for managing coronavirus risk.

Family walking to Lagoon View hide WWT.jpgVisitor numbers remain restricted and a booking system is in place for all visitors, including members, essential helpers and children under 4. There are also hand sanitisers all around site and accessible outdoor toilets and baby change facilities.

The cafe is serving food and drinks to help fuel your wetland adventure - including soups, pasties, cakes and ice creams - with a small amount of indoor seating, plus a variety of picnic tables and benches across site on which to enjoy them surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.


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