Record number of visitors see Father Christmas outdoors
Record numbers of children have enjoyed meeting Father Christmas at WWT Wetland Centres this year, with unique experiences like "Santa and the Swans", elf house tours, Sail-to-Santa boat trips and the chance to meet huskies and real reindeer!
December visitor numbers at WWT Wetland Centres have been going up year on year, thanks to unique festive events, close-up wildlife experiences, and the chance to spot birds, mammals and reptiles.
At London 
Wetland Centre, the award winning nature reserve just off Barnes High Street, Actor Hugh Grant was among those who enjoyed some quality time outdoors. After visiting Father Christmas and his real life reindeer, visitors had the chance to take a sleigh ride from his huskies and take part in nature themed festive crafts.
London Wetland Centre’s visitor numbers are up 29% from the same period last year; a trend reflected by other Wetland Centres too. This is great news for WWT, as every penny spent at its Wetland Centres supports the charity’s conservation and education activities.
Lara Wilson, WWT National PR Manager said: “Visiting Santa in a beautiful natural setting just adds to the wonder of Christmas. We’re finding that increasingly, people want an exciting Christmas experience, but also the knowledge that their day out is supporting a good cause too. WWT Wetland Centres have provided the best of both worlds and created some really unique outdoor festive experiences that directly support conservation. We’ve had some overwhelming visitor feedback, so we look forward to building on this success every year.”
Paul Sanders, father of two, said: “This was our second year at London Wetland Centre, we came last year and we loved it. We’ve seen reindeer, huskies, walked round the whole Wetland Centre and seen lots of types of birds. It’s unique - and magical!”
All nine WWT Wetland Centres are now gearing up for the post-Christmas period, and the days between Christmas and New Year, when thoughts turn to New Year’s resolutions and healthier living. The gentle paths, stunning scenery and close-up wildlife experiences make WWT Wetland Centres the perfect Christmas holiday outing, and a chance to get some fresh air and walk off the turkey!
Find out more about the WWT Wetland Centre experience here: www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/experience/
