The award winning London Wetland Centre is the first project of its kind in the world - more than 40 hectares of created wetlands in the heart of a capital city. In February of 2002 the centre was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), supporting nationally important numbers of Gadwall and Shoveler duck. Opened in May 2000, the London Wetland Centre offers hundreds of thousands of visitors the chance to see rare and beautiful wetland wildlife just a stone's throw from central London.

A mosaic of created wetland habitats, developed on the site of a disused Victorian reservoir, forms the site of the London Wetland Centre. Wander around and explore the wetlands, but also make sure you include The Peter Scott Visitor Centre in your trip.

The Visitor Centre allows people to get closer to wildlife. There are TV monitors in the buildings broadcasting pictures beamed from the wilderness areas of the reserve, coupled with interactive computers allowing visitors to explore the secret world of birds and wetlands wildlife.

There is a varied programme of events at the centre for all visitors, including free guided walks and tours. Members of the Wildlife and Wetlands Trust (WWT) have the added benefit of free entry to all nine Wetland Centres in the UK and discounts to most events - in addition to making a positive contribution to WWT's wetland conservation work.

A unique attraction offering a spectacular wetland landscape of lagoons, lakes, ponds and pools. Two thirds of the reserve is protected for the hundred of species of wild birds that stop off to nest or breed during their seasonal migratory journey. Fantastic day out for all the family. Activities every weekend and during holidays for children. Have a go at pond dipping! Lots of free parking.

How to get to the London Wetland Centre

By car
The London Wetland Centre is easily accessible by car, situated less than one mile from the South Circular (A205) at Roehampton and the A4 at Hammersmith. There is ample parking available at the centre (see note opposite).

Travelling from the North/West: Most major routes join the North Circular (A406). Travel south along the A406 to the junction with the A4 at Brentford (the M4 becomes the A4 at this point). Head east along the A4 before taking the A306 south across Hammersmith Bridge to Barnes where you will pick up the signs for the London Wetland Centre. Turn left at the Red Lion pub into Queen Elizabeth Walk. The main entrance is 300 metres on the left.

From the South/East: In South London take the South Circular (A205). Leave the A205 at Roehampton, taking the A306 towards Barnes before picking up the signs for the London Wetland Centre. In the South East take the M25, exit at junction 10 and travel north on A3. After the Robin Hood roundabout and Putney Vale exit turn left on to Roehampton lane (A306), go straight across at the South Circular traffic lights and past Barnes railway station. In Barnes turn right at the Red Lion pub into Queen Elizabeth Walk. The main entrance is 300 metres on the left.

Nearest Underground
Hammersmith Tube

Buses
From Hammersmith Tube take the 283, our specially branded Duck Bus, which will bring you directly into the centre. Alternatively, buses 33, 72 and 209 stop nearby (alight at the Red Lion Pub). From Barnes mainline station take bus 33 or 72 or from Barnes Bridge take bus 209

Trains
From Waterloo, Clapham Junction or Richmond to Barnes or Barnes Bridge. The London Wetland Centre is ten minutes walk from Barnes station and buses are frequent.

WWT aims to make the London Wetland Centre accessible to everyone. If you wish to hire a wheelchair (electric or manual) or would like assistance from a member of staff during your visit, please telephone in advance.
Discounted rates are available for pre-booked groups of 10 or more people.
No dogs allowed (except Guide Dogs).

Featured hotels near London Wetland Centre:
Shandon House Hotel, 36-38 Church Road, Richmond upon Thames, London TW9 1UA
The Red Cow, 59 Sheen Road, Richmond, Surrey, London TW9 1YJ
Hobart Hall Hotel, 43 - 47 Petersham Road, Richmond upon Thames, Surrey, Greater London TW10 6UL
Riverside Hotel, 23 Petersham Road, Richmond upon Thames, Surrey, Greater London TW10 6UH
Quinns Hotel, 48 Sheen Road, Richmond upon Thames, London TW9 1AW
Richmond Park Hotel, 3 Petersham Road, Richmond, Surrey, London TW10 6UH
The Lodge Hotel, 52-54 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, London SW15 2RN
Petersham Hotel, Nightingale Lane, Richmond, Surrey, London TW10 6UZ
The Richmond Gate Hotel, Richmond Hill, Richmond upon Thames, Surrey TW10 6RP
The Dukes Head, 42 The Vineyard, Richmond, Surrey, London TW10 6AN
Richmond Hill Hotel, Richmond Hill Richmond, Surrey, London TW10 6RW
The Best Western Lodge Hotel, 52-54 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, London SW15 2RN