Coronavirus (COVID-19)

If you are planning on travelling distance to attractions, we would recommend that you contact the venues directly in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you, or any of your party have a new persistant cough, or develop a fever of 38C, we would instead advise you to use the NHS's dedicated website for professional advice.

RSPB Swell Wood Reserve

The ancient oaks of Swell Wood are part of a continuous strip of woodland extending some 10 miles (15 km) along the ridge from Langport to the Blackdown Hills. It has the largest colony of breeding grey herons in south-west England - more than 100 pairs and a small number of little egrets nest here. Between March and June is the best time to come and see the spectacle. If you're lucky, you might see a dormouse among the hazel trees, while wildflowers such as bluebells cover the woodland in spring. Look out for primroses and orchids, too. We manage the woodland to benefit the dormice, woodland birds, butterflies and plants.You can explore our two nature trails and hide, which are open at all times.
Open all year from dawn to dusk.
Free, but donations to help us continue our work here are welcome.
Come and see our nesting herons and little egrets from the hide (between April and June). We also run regular events to help you see the birds. Nuthatches and woodpeckers are among the many birds that feed at the car park bird feeders in winter.
It's a great place for family walks.
No access for dogs, except on the Scarp Trail. They must be kept on leads.

  • Currently: Low-level cloud, 11° C
  • Tuesday: Medium-level cloud, 14° C
  • Wednesday: Medium-level cloud, 14° C