WWT London wetland centre
London, Greater London
About WWT London wetland centre
WWT London Wetland Centre is a blissful nature reserve right by the river Thames, just 15 minutes walk from Barnes rail station.
Providing visitors with brilliant days out surrounded by wildlife, our mission is to inspire people to cherish and protect the world’s wetlands.
Once consisting of defunct, concrete-lined Victorian reservoirs, the space was transformed by WWT into a thriving wildlife haven opened by Sir David Attenborough in 2000. He said: “It’s sensational – an extra lung for Londoners, and right in the middle of London”
At the heart of the reserve is a host of diverse and rare water habitats created to support thousands of animals. These include Red List birds such as black-tailed godwits that use the site as an essential lifeline for migrating.
By providing a stronghold for threatened UK wildlife, the reserve is regarded as one of the great conservation successes of the 21st century. It is now used as a blueprint for urban wetland creation around the world.
Our aim is for people to feel connected to wetlands, returning again and again, supporting our work, and being inspired to take action to protect these precious spaces.
While exploring the reserve, visitors can expect to see wildlife found nowhere else in London including species of butterflies, dragonflies, bees, moths, beetles, bats, frogs, fish, birds, plant life, fungi, and more.
While on-site they can also discover the importance of wetland habitats and how to protect them through our talks, friendly staff and volunteers, art installations, and engaging signage.
What’s more, visitors can feel even better safe in the knowledge that their tickets and onsite purchases contribute to WWT’s essential conservation projects, protecting wetlands around the world.
Wild Walk
Wetland secrets wait around every corner of this immersive nature experience. But prepare to hold your nerve…our rope bridge
takes no prisoners!
Wetlands of the World and six bird-spotting hides
Wetlands of the World – Meet remarkable and rare wildlife from around the globe and learn about WWT’s worldwide work. Explore six bird-spotting hides, our big view observatory, and daily wildlife talks
Wildside
Wildside takes tranquillity to a whole new level. Find a secluded spot to absorb the peace and admire migrating birdlife.
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Wheelchair Hire
Free Wifi
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 16:30
- Tuesday, 10:00 - 16:30
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 16:30
- Thursday, 10:00 - 16:30
- Friday, 10:00 - 16:30
- Saturday, 10:00 - 16:30
- Sunday, 10:00 - 16:30
We're open 7 days a week, 364 days a year.
April - October
10.00am to 5:30pm
November - March
10.00am to 4:30pm
Last admission is one hour before closing
Christmas Day
CLOSED
Pricing & Tickets
- Babies and Toddlers (0-2) : Free
- Adult (17-18+) : £18.10
- Child (3-17) : £11.75
Family £50.90 (2 adults & 2 children)
Concessions £16.45
Receive 10% discount on tickets when purchased online in advance.
Free entry for WWT members, children under 3 years and carers accompanying visitors with disabilities.
(Prices shown do not incldue gift aid)
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to WWT London wetland centre by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 2 - 3 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
The café is open 10.00am. Last orders at 30 minutes before centre closes.
Hot food (lunch service) from 11:30 to 15:00
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drink and make use of our picnic areas.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
W W T
London Wetland Centre
Queen Elizabeth Walk
London
Greater London
SW13 9WT
England
Tel: 02084094400
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
By bus
Buses 33, 209, 378 and 419 stop nearby (alight at the Red Lion stop, approximately 100 metres walk from the wetland centre).The 485 bus from Hammersmith Bridge comes directly into the Centre.
By rail
From Barnes station it is a 15 minute walk to the centre (or 5 minutes by bus). You can also alight at Barnes Bridge station which is a 15 minute walk to the centre through Barnes village (or catch the 209 bus).
By tube
Hammersmith tube station (on the Piccadilly and District & Circle Lines) is the nearest tube station. From here it is a bus ride (routes 209/533) to the Red Lion pub, approximately 150 metres from the Centre. Or 25 min walking via Tow path – overlooking the Thames river.
Putney Bridge tube station (on the District Line) is a 25 min walking via tow path overlooking the Thames river. From the Putney Bridge there is a bus ride (route 378) to the Red Lion pub, approximately 150 metres from the Centre.
By car
The centre is located just off the main A306. Once in Barnes you can follow the brown tourist signs to the centre. The centre is situated outside the London Congestion Charging Zone. From 25th October 2021 the centre will be inside the ULEZ Charging Zone.
Verification
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WWT London wetland centre Reviews
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