Arundel Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre, Arundel

I used to visit Arundel Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre when I was young, and now try to bring the kids here as often as I can. There is quite an extensive trail to follow and along the way the kids can spot different breeds of ducks, find wooden climbing frames and bridges and learn in the education centres. The kids like checking off the ducks and geese we spot on homemade checklists - there are helpful signs around the trail making the trip both educational and fun. We also really love the area surrounding the Wetlands Centre – you can walk along the river from Arundel if you have the time, visit the incredible castle in town, or even go boating on the local lake. Brilliant day family day out.

We loved Arundel Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre and had a great day out there. It has become one of our favourite wetlands centres, primarily because they sell bags of seeds so the kids can feed the ducks and geese. It is worth noting though, that the ducks were not very hungry when got there in the afternoon – probably better to arrive first thing in the morning before they get full up! Another nice surprise here was half way along the main trail, in one of the little education rooms, kids were given a fishing net and flat bucket to find and examine pond-life. Kids can look at the creatures they fish out through a little microscope and also one that shows the creature on a large screen. After examination and identification, we carefully poured the creatures back in to the water. We loved this and spent some time investigating the myriad of tiny animals you can find in pond reeds! A really lovely trip.

This centre is fantastic for ANYONE interested in learning more about nature and wildlife conservation, and there is plenty to see and do. There are lots of species of birds, with the chance to see them up close...very close in some instances! Staff are very friendly and helpful, and always prepared to answer questions. Themed days are often held, and these are good for those with particular interests. The relaxed pace and atmosphere of the centre mean that it is the antithesis of a theme park! Welcome relief if you've had a rather hectic school holiday! There is lots to learn about conservation and making a real difference to the animals housed at the centre. Be careful if you take a picnic though - you might find a few of the birds trying to make off with your cheese sarnie! There is a restaurant near the entrance for a 'safer' lunch, but we loved eating our picnic outside among the wildlife. If you have very young children or those with a limited attention span, this may not be the venue for you. There is a lot of walking involved too. My son has mobility problems, so he liked to stop and rest every so often - there are many benches provided for this purpose! The entry cost is average, I would say - although in my opinion it is well worth it to know you are supporting the conservation work. My son loved being able to feed the birds - particularly the world's rarest goose, which fed from his hand and proceeded to follow us around the centre! I would thoroughly recommend visiting to anyone, it's a great day out.