Top Things to do This Autumn
Autumnal wetlands are spectacular places to be.
With dramatic skies, an abundance of bird life and colour aplenty, they are truly uplifting in their beauty and offer something to engage people of all ages and interests.
Knowing that there’s so much to discover on a day out at WWT Washington at this time of year, we’ve pulled together a few key things not to miss while you’re here. Don’t forget to take screenshots to use as a guide!
1. Flock to our feeding stations
When the colder weather comes creeping in, Hawthorn Wood Hide and The Lookout burst with life, as many woodland birds come to rely on these areas for food.
Enjoy the close-up action at our busy feeding stations, with colourful bullfinch, feisty robin, charismatic nuthatch, seasonal siskin (below) and a huge array of other species flitting and feeding amongst the bare branches.
TOP TIP: Hawthorn Wood Hide guarantees great views of many birds, with a large central window making it very accessible. It’s the perfect place for children to begin their birdwatching journey. Be sure to pick up a free woodland bird spotter guide before leaving the visitor centre, to encourage everyone to spot and ID different birds!
2. Follow the eek! week interactive trail
A must-do for families - the frighteningly fantastic eek! week is on now until Sunday 5 November.
Get close to the weird and wonderful side of wetland nature during this self-led trail.
Journey around our inner circle and put your nerves AND senses to the test with feely boxes and other interactives, while learning more about the wildlife that lurks in wetlands. A great incentive for urging little legs to take a few more steps!
3. Witness migration in action
Autumn is a wonderful time to see nature on the move.
Many wetland birds are preparing for the long journey to their winter destinations and use our site as a rest and refuelling point.
Head to Wader Lake and listen for the eerie call of red-listed curlew, then watch in awe as they come in to roost when dusk draws in. Northumbrian Water hide is a great spot to see them flying overhead, while Paddy Fleming and Diageo hides provide a full view of the lake.
Other seasonal stars include lapwing, greenshank, snipe, teal, wigeon and the occasional passing visitors such as whooper swans and black-tailed godwit. Learn more here
TOP TIP: Head to the lagoon viewpoint, which overlooks Wader Meadow at the back of the lake. Curlew like to forage for food in the grass and muddy plains here (below) and it's a great opportunity to observe them a little closer.
4. Boost your mental wellbeing
To experience wetlands in autumn is to know them at their most restorative.
Not only do they give us fresh air, peace, beauty and space; they also provide a deeper connection and an awareness that we’re part of something so much bigger than ourselves.
To mark the recent World Mental Health day, we looked at how WWT Washington’s autumnal surroundings are the perfect place to slow down, relax and escape daily pressures and how immersing yourself in them can contribute to improved mental health.
Take a look at our autumnal wellbeing blog and maybe you can put some of the tips into practice on your next visit.
5. Go on a fungi hunt
Fungi thrives on damp deadwood and this time of year provides the ideal conditions for species of all shapes, sizes and colours to thrive. King Alfred's cakes, candlesnuff, turkeytail, scarlet elf cup and many more adorn our woodlands and are easily viewed.
Pick up our free fungi spotter guides in the visitor centre to help in your search – there’s a simple-to-follow picture version for children and a more detailed sheet for those who love a fact or two!
TOP TIP: Hollowood is a great place to start a fungi foray. Look around tree bases, tree stumps and among fallen leaves, as these are particular favourite spots.
6. Be “Drawn to Water”
Engage all your senses as you explore our wetlands this autumn, with Sir Quentin Blake and his distinctive ducks as your guide.
From quiet spots with breathtaking views and uplifting autumnal colours, to sounds of migrating birds and up-close wildlife encounters...pick up your free Drawn to Water trail map full of his beautiful drawings, look out for the orange mallard images and start seeing us in a whole new light.
Suitable for all ages and includes a collectable bookmark. Don’t forget to come back for your winter one too! Daily until 30 November.
Ready to visit?
If you've been inspired to explore Washington Wetland Centre this autumn, find out more and plan your visit online.
