Abbotsbury Swannery
Nestled on the dramatic Dorset Coast, Abbotsbury Swannery is home to the world’s only managed colony of nesting Mute Swans. Established by Benedictine Monks in the 1040s, the Swannery has a rich history and offers a unique and tranquil experience for visitors. The Swannery is open to the public from mid-March until November, providing a perfect opportunity to witness the beauty of over 600 Mute Swans in their natural habitat.
Interesting Facts about Abbotsbury Swannery
- Abbotsbury Swannery is located on a 1-hectare (2-acre) site around the Fleet Lagoon, protected from the weather of Lyme Bay by Chesil Beach
- The Swannery can number over 600 swans with around 150 pairs
- It is the only managed colony of Mute Swans in the world, making it a unique and special place
- The Swannery collects and records data regarding the swans, as well as visiting birds and wildlife
(Information reference, Wikipedia & Abbotsbury Swannery website)
Family day out
In June, the last weekend of half term, we decided to check out Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset, and it turned out to be an awesome family day out. The weather was dry, which was perfect for our adventure.
We spent about four hours wandering around the swannery, as there was more to do than we initially realised. When we got there the kids did a little trail which is now based on the Bramley Hedge books. The paths were nice, and there were lots of signs with interesting info about the history of the place and how the monks used to live there with the swans. There were swans of all ages, and we saw lots of nests and even spotted some eggs!
One of the best parts was the talk we attended. We learned so much about the swans, their habitat and the relationship with the His Majesty the King. It was really engaging for both the kids and us adults, and we all walked away knowing a lot more about these beautiful birds.
Feeding the swans was another highlight. The kids (and us grown-ups too!) loved getting up close and feeding them. It was such a unique experience and added to the fun of the day.
After all that exploring, we took a break at the on-site café. It was the perfect spot to sit down and relax with a cup of tea while the kids played on swings / climbing frame area.
Before we headed home, we found the wheel / pedal karts in a hay track near the car park. This was a fantastic end to our day. We had so much fun racing around the track, and it was a hit with everyone in the family.
Getting there
We drove from Sunnyside, it took approximately 20 minutes, the last bit of journey was lovely as you go through Abbotsbury Village to get there. Parking was free and plenty of space but not sure if it gets busier than the day we were there (although was half term).
There are buses from just outside Sunnyside that take you to Abbotsbury, however, I believe this leaves a 20 minute walk from the village to the Swannery.
Value for Money
We felt that Abbotsbury Swannery was good value for money as lots to do in ticket price and everything looks well maintained so clearly spent well. The staff are all lovely too. We were lucky and went with a promotion where children can enter for just £1 with a paying adult, so it’s worth checking their website for any deals. You can also save a bit if you buy a dual ticket for Abbotsbury Swannery and Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens.
At time of writing Adult tickets are £12.95, children aged 5 and over are £6.95, and kids under 5 get in for free, it may be different now but gives an idea for budget.
Picture: Wildlife at Chesil Beach on way back from sunset
Overall, our visit to Abbotsbury Swannery was a blast. It was a day filled with cool facts, fun and fresh air, and we can’t wait to go back again ☺️