
Abbotsbury Swannery
Home to over 600 mute swans, this sanctuary offers close encounters with majestic birds, adorable cygnets, and family fun.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See fluffy cygnets hatch!

Abbotsbury Swannery
Best Time
See fluffy cygnets hatch!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to over 600 mute swans, this sanctuary offers close encounters with majestic birds, adorable cygnets, and family fun.
"One of the best places I have visited in Dorset; highly recommend!"

🎯 See the Cygnets!
Spring is prime time for baby swans! Arrive early to witness their adorable fluffiness .
🎟️ Passport Ticket Value
Combine with Subtropical Gardens for a full day's adventure! Great value for money .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baby Swans (Cygnet Season)
Nesting areas
Witness the magic of newly hatched cygnets, fluffy and adorable, during spring. A truly heartwarming sight!

Mute Swan Colony
Main grounds
Marvel at the sheer number of majestic mute swans, one of the largest colonies in the UK. Get up close and personal!

Brambly Hedge Trail
Designated trail
An enchanting trail bringing the beloved Brambly Hedge stories to life, perfect for families and fans.

Willow Maze
Near picnic area
Get lost and have fun in this charming willow maze, a delightful challenge for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Swan Sightings
Passport to Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 See the Cygnets!
Spring is prime time for baby swans! Arrive early to witness their adorable fluffiness.
🎟️ Passport Ticket Value
Combine with Subtropical Gardens for a full day's adventure! Great value for money.
🚶♀️ Scenic Nature Walks
Explore diverse birdlife and enjoy peaceful walks through the grounds and meadows.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of lovely spots to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 See the Cygnets!
Spring is prime time for baby swans! Arrive early to witness their adorable fluffiness.
🎟️ Passport Ticket Value
Combine with Subtropical Gardens for a full day's adventure! Great value for money.
🚶♀️ Scenic Nature Walks
Explore diverse birdlife and enjoy peaceful walks through the grounds and meadows.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of lovely spots to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
🦢 Feeding Time Fun
Don't miss the swan feeding sessions for an exciting spectacle.
♿ Accessible Paths
Disabled parking is available close to the swans; look for the sign near the entrance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Abbotsbury Swannery for its stunning natural beauty and the incredible opportunity to get close to hundreds of majestic swans. The arrival of cygnets in spring is a major highlight, and the addition of family-friendly attractions like the Brambly Hedge Trail and willow maze makes it a well-rounded destination. While some mention limited bathroom facilities at the car park, the overall experience is described as refreshing, relaxing, and highly recommended for animal lovers and families alike.
"What a fantastic place! The Swannery is located a few minutes walk from the car park but once you’re here it’s a lovely piece of nature. There’s a trail you can follow to see all the places where the swans are and also other birds like ducks. It’s a nice walk and also an interesting one watching the birds and learning more about them. We only stayed for around an hour because I wanted to use the bathrooms and there’s only one at the car park unfortunately. Or else I would have loved to stay a bit longer. If you love animals and specifically birds, you’ll love this place."
Melanie Mengüş
"Perfect spot to enjoy tranquility with nature and August is perfect time. All you need to go there and all sets on their own. Nice breakfast coffee shop and welfare facilities. Nice gift shop v cute swan 🦢 gifts as memory. Really enjoy the place and definitely worth it, surrounded swannry have many place to go by walk. Easy to spend whole day. Staff v friendly. Nature is so wonderful 🦢🥰if you notice their response."
Harsh Patel
"Absolutely brilliant day out for all ages. The location is stunning, and on arrival you are greeted by a cafe and play park with a small river running by. There are multiple picnic opportunities around the site if you prefer to bring a picnic. A scenic wander beyond the gift shop brings you alongside the go cart race track (no charge, first come first served) and a willow maze. Amble on further to a large picnic area and wild flower meadow. You'll need to refuel as there is so much more to see yet. Some lovely displays, including a human sized nest, a medicinal herb garden and some artefacts to view. Keep walking and you will discover nesting swans barely an arms length from the path and even more stunning walks. I ran out of time at this point so I will be back. We had a very happy day at the Swannery and came home refreshed and relaxed. A slice of paradise set just outside the idyllic village of Abbotsbury. 🥰"
Elizabeth Young
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Swannery is located near Weymouth in Dorset. It's accessible by car, with parking available.
Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable. Many visitors combine it with a trip to the Subtropical Gardens, which are part of the same organization.Yes, there is parking available at the Swannery. Disabled parking is conveniently located close to the main attraction.
While driving is the most convenient, you can explore public transport options. Check local bus services from Weymouth to Abbotsbury village. It's a short walk from the village to the Swannery.
Driving is straightforward, taking about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, local buses run from Weymouth to Abbotsbury, offering a scenic journey.
The Swannery is well-signposted in the Abbotsbury area. Follow the signs from Weymouth, and you'll easily reach the New Barn Road entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but purchasing a 'Passport' ticket can offer great value, especially if you plan to visit the Subtropical Gardens on the same day.
Check their official website for the most current pricing.It's generally recommended to check the official Abbotsbury Swannery website for online booking options. This can sometimes save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Abbotsbury Swannery website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.
Look out for potential discounts on their website or consider the 'Passport' ticket which includes entry to the Subtropical Gardens.
Family tickets or group rates might also be available.Your ticket typically grants access to the swan sanctuary, viewing areas, the Brambly Hedge trail, and the willow maze. Feeding sessions are often included or available for a small extra cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can observe hundreds of mute swans, witness feeding times, explore the Brambly Hedge trail, navigate a willow maze, and enjoy scenic walks. There are also displays and a human-sized nest to discover.
Cygnet season typically runs from spring into early summer. The first cygnets of 2024 arrived in spring, so visiting during this period offers the best chance to see them.
Yes, feeding the swans is a popular activity. You can purchase swan food on-site to participate in feeding sessions, which are a highlight for many visitors.
Absolutely! There's a play park, the Brambly Hedge trail, and plenty of space to run around. Seeing the cygnets is a huge hit with kids.
You can spend anywhere from an hour to a full day. Many visitors find 2-3 hours is sufficient for the main attractions, but you could easily spend longer if you explore the surrounding walks or combine it with the gardens.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe on-site offering breakfast, coffee, and snacks.
You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy at designated areas.Definitely! There are multiple picnic areas around the grounds, making it a great option for families or those looking to save money.
The cafe typically offers light meals, refreshments, and treats. It's a convenient spot for a coffee break or a light lunch while visiting.
While specific menus can change, cafes at attractions often provide a selection of vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly or check their menu if you have specific dietary needs.
The village of Abbotsbury has charming pubs and cafes if you wish to dine outside the Swannery. The on-site cafe is convenient for a quick bite.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the majestic swans up close, the fluffy cygnets in spring,
the charming Brambly Hedge trail, and the scenic landscapes. The human-sized nest is also a unique photo spot.The swans are often very close to the paths, making them accessible for photography. Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful, soft lighting for your shots.
A telephoto lens is great for capturing details of the swans from a distance, but a standard zoom lens or even a smartphone camera will work well for general shots and the wider scenery.
Drone usage is typically restricted at wildlife sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals. It's best to check the official rules and regulations before flying a drone.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most flattering light for photography, creating a warm glow and softer shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a 'Passport' ticket to also explore the Subtropical Gardens, offering even more to see and do. There are plenty of picnic spots available, making it easy to manage meals on a budget. The accessible paths also ensure a smoother experience for families with strollers or those with mobility needs.
🚶♀️ Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Spring offers the special treat of seeing fluffy cygnets, a truly magical sight for any wildlife lover. The well-maintained walking trails provide a peaceful way to explore the grounds and observe the natural habitat. The tranquil atmosphere, especially outside of peak feeding times, allows for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the natural world.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the best natural light, creating a soft, warm glow on the water and birds. The close proximity to the swans means you can get detailed shots even with a standard lens or smartphone. The human-sized nest also offers a quirky and memorable photo opportunity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Mute Swans
During the spring months, the Swannery becomes even more enchanting with the arrival of cygnets. These fluffy, grey babies are a delight to behold and a major draw for visitors. Watching them paddle alongside their parents is a heartwarming sight that captures the essence of new life. The staff are dedicated to the welfare of these birds, ensuring a safe and thriving environment for the colony.
Beyond the mute swans, the Swannery also hosts various other bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The natural setting provides ample opportunities to observe different types of waterfowl and other local birdlife in their habitat. It's a chance to appreciate the diversity of avian life in a protected sanctuary.
Family Fun and Enchanting Trails
Adding to the fun is the willow maze, a delightful challenge that provides entertainment for all ages. It's a chance to get a little lost and find your way through the twists and turns. The combination of these attractions, alongside the opportunity to feed the swans, makes for a memorable family outing. The natural beauty of the surroundings further enhances the experience, offering a blend of education and pure enjoyment.
For those looking to extend their visit, the Swannery is part of a larger complex that includes the Subtropical Gardens. Purchasing a 'Passport' ticket can grant access to both, offering a full day of exploration and discovery for the entire family. This makes Abbotsbury Swannery a comprehensive destination for a day trip filled with nature, fun, and a touch of magic.
A Slice of History and Nature
The surrounding landscape is a key part of the experience. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks that meander through meadows and alongside waterways, offering peaceful moments and opportunities to connect with nature. The natural setting is often described as stunning and a 'slice of paradise'.
This blend of history and nature creates a unique atmosphere. It's a place where you can appreciate the enduring presence of wildlife alongside the echoes of the past. The well-maintained grounds and facilities contribute to a pleasant and immersive visit, making it a highly recommended spot for anyone exploring Dorset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit