Accessibility during autumn and winter

During the colder months, the reserve can be wet and muddy so waterproof footwear is recommended. Those with limited mobility or using push wheelchairs may find traversing the Avenue and Saltcot Loaning unsuitable. Please call us on 01387 770200 for more info.

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Autumnal wetland wellbeing

Restore your wellbeing in our wetlands this autumn

As autumn approaches, we welcome the change in season and opportunities to immerse ourselves within the wetland nature Caerlaverock has to offer.

Making the most of quality time engaging all the senses gives a real wellbeing boost. From seeing the beauty of the foliage along our avenues changing colours, hearing the migrating wildfowl return with their stirring vocalisations and the sweet scent of apples ripening in our orchard. Feel a fresh breeze from the Solway coast create rosy cheeks as a hot drink warms within.

Whilst nature provides a plentiful bounty for our wildlife to harvest, we notice that in order to be productive, regular periods of rest are also required. Deciduous trees begin to bring their nutrients into their cores. The resulting change in colour and loss of their leaves is splendidly beautiful.

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Sensational seasonal splendours

For our wetlands, it is a spectacular time of year. The first of our migratory birds arrive, having flown vast distances in search of food and warmth to shelter and our reserves transform into an impressive patchwork of rich textures and dazzling colour displays, as leaves turn amber, fruits and berries emerge from the hedgerows and fascinating fungus sprout underfoot.

In fact, autumn is perhaps the nicest time of year to explore wetlands whatever the weather. They provide an abundance of space and fresh air for nature lovers to enjoy endless skies and epic sunsets. Comfortable hides ensure visitors can protect themselves from the elements without missing out on amazing seasonal scenes.

Migration is a marvellous natural spectacle. Considering the challenges overcome by the birds flying many miles returning to their winter refuge can help put things in perspective, and reflect on our place within it all.

Here at Caerlaverock, we will be celebrating the arrival of thousands of Barnacle geese from arctic Svalbard with the Wild Goose Festival. Take a gander at our what's on page for more details of our activities taking place to mark the occasion.

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Along with the Barnacle geese, Pink footed and Greylag geese arrive on the reserve. Ducks spend the day on our ponds, including Teal and Shoveler. Waders swirl on the high tides, with many flocks of Black tailed godwit, Curlew & Lapwings.

A warm welcome awaits

We look forward to having you here at WWT Caerlaverock. Plan your visit here

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