Abbotsbury Swannery & Sub-Tropical Gardens, Abbotsbury
In 1765, the beautiful sub-tropical gardens of Abbotsbury were established on the South Coast of England, by the First Countess of Ilchester. Although the gardens now cover in excess of 20 acres, the site was originally developed to be a kitchen garden for the Countesses nearby castle. Several exotic plants from across the world have been housed at the gardens, a number of them being newly-discovered species on their being introduced. However during the storm period of 1990, a great many of these rare species were destroyed and have since been replaced with a variety of innovative and exotic plants. With a viewing point over the Jurassic Coast, walled gardens and woodland walks, the area is renown for its outstanding beauty.
Nearby in Abbotsbury, is the world’s only managed colony of mute swans. Housing over 600 free flying swans, the site has housed the birds for in excess of six hundred years, with written records of its existence dating back to 1393. Today, the swans are used to roaming tourists, who are able to walk around the swannery and observe from close ranges, the nests and young cygnets. The ideal time to visit the swannery is noon and 4pm, as this is when the swans daily feeding occurs. Both adults and children are allowed to assist the feeder at these times, giving a real one in a lifetime experience. There is also an audio tour which takes place every hour and this is free for visitors.
