Join us for a winter visit to WWT Welney in Norfolk, a vast wetland on the Ouse Washes famous for its winter swan spectacle.

On this trip we will watch the swans gather on the washes, with Whooper Swans newly arrived from Iceland and, among them, the scarcer Bewick's Swan from Arctic Russia. The daily flight to and from the surrounding fields is the highlight, watched in comfort from Welney's heated hides.

Alongside the swans the washes also teem with other wildfowl, and as we walk around the reserve or enjoy panoramic views from the visitor centre we also expect to see Short-eared Owls hunting, Brown Hares and the increasingly scarce Tree Sparrow.

At 3.30pm we will be observing a swan-feeding session, which includes an introductory 15 to 20-minute talk about the Ouse Washes and the swans.

The trip is suitable for everyone, whether you are a beginner or an experienced birdwatcher. Newcomers are very welcome. You can join our expert volunteer guide to walk round the reserve or go round on your own, as you prefer.

More information about the destination can be found on the WWT Welney website (https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney), and on the reserve's eBird hotspot (https://ebird.org/hotspot/L1506897).

You can read a blog (https://group.rspb.org.uk/centrallondon/news-blogs/blog/wwt-welney-trip-14-12-24/) about our last trip to Welney and what we saw on the RSPB Central London Local Group website. On that trip, because of a recent storm and extensive flooding, the swans were at a distance - but we still had a brilliant day!

Photos above all © RSPB, Ben Andrew

Entry Fee (not included in Eventbrite ticket)

WWT Member: Free

Adult Non-Member: £5.91 or £6.52 with Gift Aid (online booking in advance is recommended for quicker entry and a discount)

See the WWT Welney website for more information about tickets

Facilities

Visitor centre: café (hot and cold food), shop, toilets

Bird hides

Travel Information

Coaches depart from Stop 40B, Victoria Embankment, 08:00 sharp

Arrive by 07:50 to board and stow your gear

Nearest Tube: Embankment

Outbound journey includes a 20-minute services stop where you can use toilet facilities and buy food and drink; no stop on return; WC on coach

Depart reserve at 17:00

What to Bring

Clothes for all weathers

Binoculars (and scope if you have one)

Packed lunch if you wish to join our guide for lunch in one of the hides - alternatively you can buy food and eat at the cafe

Description supplied by the event organiser.