If you’re looking for something fun and interesting to do for the day, then a visit to Abbotsbury Swannery should be top of your list.
Set over 25 acres of beautiful countryside, you can visit the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans.
You’ll be amazed by the sheer amount of swans peacefully living in this beautiful sanctuary, a perfect day out for families of all ages.
Abbotsbury Swannery is one of the best attractions in Dorset; read on to find out why.
Established by Benedictine Monks who farmed the swans for their banquets in the 1040s, the monastery they built at Abbotsbury was destroyed in 1539, and since then, the Swannery has been under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates.
Today, visitors can wander around the sanctuary and sit in the peaceful countryside surrounded by hundreds of beautiful swans and their cute fluffy cygnets.
Abbostbury Swannery is great for all ages and abilities, being wheelchair friendly and a quiet retreat from other busier parks available.
Children can get in for £1 during May and June, and parking is free, making it an affordable and fun-filled day out for all the family.
💡 Good to know: Dogs understandably aren’t allowed in the swannery so please be aware before attending with your furry friend.
If you’re lucky enough to visit between 12pm and 4pm you’ll witness and be able to get involved with feeding over 600 swans!
The park has lots of other attractions and areas to visit, there are also a number of picnic tables for a lunch break.
You’ll be able to experience going in the largest willow maze in Dorset, a very fitting swan-shaped maze that will weave you in and out of the different areas.
Will you be able to find your way out?
A go-kart track is situated near the picnic area, ready for you to race your loved ones or have a leisurely ride around, taking in the beautiful countryside views.
New to 2024, children can take part in the Brambly Hedge Trail, based on a collection of children’s stories by Jill Barklam; children can find different areas and checkpoints throughout the park with questions to answer, stamp points and characters to find around the park.
You can also find picturesque thatched huts dotted around with useful and interesting information about the swannery and the wildlife that you can find around the area.
Near the entrance of the Swannery, you’ll find the cafe, toilets and a great play park.
The park even has a built-in-the-ground trampoline; you’ll struggle to get the children to leave after bouncing and swinging around in the large swings.
There are tables situated next to the park so you can eat your lunch or enjoy a drink from the cafe whilst the children play.
The cafe is self-serve, and there is lots to choose from.
You’ll find the likes of soups, mac and cheese, cornish pasties and sausage rolls.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat then there is an abundance of cakes which can be enjoyed with a hot drink.
💡 Good to know: The cafe is cashless
There is also a fantastic gift shop filled with lots of swan memorabilia, toys, books, sweet treats and more.
Related: Ready to plan your trip and see everything Abbotsbury has to offer? Check out our comprehensive guide on things to do in Abbotsbury, Dorset to make the most of your visit!
Why not pick up a magnet or send a postcard to a loved one?
There are a number of events held throughout the year at Abbotsbury Swannery, such as pumpkin trails, theatre in the garden and plant fairs.
There are also discounts if you book jointly with the swannery and Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens.
Keep up to date and find out more on the Abbotsbury Swannery website.
You’ll come away happy that you spent the day at the Swannery; it’s a brilliant day out filled with activities and a sight like no other, with the stunning backdrop of the country hills and the sea of swans going on forever.
Have a lovely day out, and thanks for reading.
