Overlooked by ancient woodland, this beautiful wetland reserve, managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT), offers a chance to get up close to rare waterfowl and learn about the charity’s conservation efforts in a peaceful setting. From wandering along the boardwalks to taking a guided boat safari, there’s plenty of things to see and do, and make the most of your visit to this wonderful wildlife reserve.

Getting There

WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is located just outside the historic town of Arundel in West Sussex. The centre is a 15-minute drive from the A27 and has free on-site parking. If you’re using a GPS, the address to enter is Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PB, and follow the brown duck signs beside Arundel Castle.

Arundel train station is well-connected, with direct trains from London Victoria and Gatwick Airport. From the station, it’s a pleasant half hour walk through the town and along Mill Road. Be aware that parts of the road do not have a footpath and there is no street lighting along sections, so care should be taken in darkness. Alternatively, you can walk along the River Arun to reach the Wetland Centre, which takes about an hour.

There is no bus service that runs directly to the Wetland Centre, but several routes connect Arundel with surrounding towns such as Worthing, Littlehampton, and Chichester. Check local bus schedules for times and routes.

What to See and Do

WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is a wonderful destination for people of all ages, offering interactive experiences and opportunities to get close to nature around every corner.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting: The wetlands are home to over 100 species of native and migratory birds, with the centre’s eight hides allowing visitors to observe them without disturbance.

In spring, look out for sand martins building nests in the artificial sandbanks, and mallards leading their ducklings to water. Summer brings a burst of colour as wildflowers open across the landscape attracting bees, butterflies, and other insects.

Swallows pass through in autumn before their long migration to Africa, while snipe, and Bewick’s swans arrive for the winter. Birds of prey such as red kites, kestrels, sparrowhawks, and peregrine falcons can be seen circling in the skies over the centre all year round.

The collection of captive waterfowl includes some endangered species including the Hawaiian goose, the rarest species of goose in the world, as well as a variety of sea ducks.

The wetlands are also home to numerous small mammals such as otters, beavers, and bats, making it a diverse place for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Boat Safari: One of the centre’s highlights is the guided Wetland Discovery boat safari, which takes visitors through the water meadows, islands, and reed beds of the wetlands. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 20-minute journey provides an opportunity to see wetland wildlife up close and learn about the importance of their habitats.

The boat is electrically powered, allowing you to glide quietly through the water without disturbing the animals. On the way, keep your eyes peeled for reed warblers, avocets, and the bright blue flash of the kingfisher.

Woodland Walks and Nature Trails: The centre’s trails offer a scenic walk along a wooden boardwalk of decks and bridges that take you through the largest reed bed in West Sussex, lagoons, woodland, and wildflower meadows, with plenty of benches and viewpoints to pause and take in the surroundings. Keep an eye out for water voles, dragonflies, Cetti’s warbler, and the elusive water rail.

Children and families will enjoy the interactive elements along the trails, including pond-dipping stations, bird-feeding areas, and educational signage.

Pelican Cove: Meet the Dalmatian pelicans, the largest pelican species in the world. The cove has a pond and two islands, perfect for them to perch, preen their feathers, and bask in the sun. Their keepers feed them fish several times a day, and each afternoon you’ll have the chance to meet the keepers, who will be on hand to answer any questions you have about these magnificent birds.

Seasonal Events and Activities: Throughout the year, WWT Arundel Wetland Centre hosts seasonal events, including bird migration sessions in autumn, family-friendly Easter egg hunts, and Christmas lantern trails. Events vary by season, so it’s worth checking the centre’s website to see what’s on during your visit.