Abbotsbury Swannery, Abbotsbury, Devon
Abbotsbury Swannery on the Dorset coast has a rich and vast history, originally established by Benedictine monks in the 11th century to farm swans as food for local banquets. Spin forward 1000 years or so and it's a much kinder place; this 25 acre site is home to the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans. That's quite something because you’d struggle to find anywhere else where you can see such an incredible number of them in their natural habitat.
The swannery is busisest from Mid May to the end of June, but that's the best time to visit because that’s when the cygnets are hatching – you can even help with the daily hand feeds at 12 noon and 4pm, which is an experience not to be forgotten. The youngsters will have heaps of fun finding their way around the huge swan maze and on the swinging nests in the play area. Should you come over peckish (excuse the pun) head for the Swannery coffee shop for sustenance. Extend your visit with a stroll around the picturesque village where you can browse the art galleries and see the ruins of the monastery and the 15th century tithe barn.
Up on the hilltop just quarter of a mile away from the swannery is St Catherine’s Chapel, built by the monks as a pilgrimage site. The views over Chesil Beach and the Isle of Portland are incredible.
Groups are welcome at Abbotsbury Swannery, but dogs and swans aren’t the best mix, so leave your fluffy companions at home.
Open: Every day March – October 10.00am-5.00pm
T: 01305 871858 All information correct at the time of writing