WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre in Gloucestershire has expanded its visitor offerings with the launch of Warblers’ Meadow, a glamping site featuring five shepherd’s huts located in a quieter part of the reserve.
The site, which opened earlier in 2024, is positioned to provide guests with a nature-immersive experience, combining basic comforts with access to the centre’s wetland habitats and wildlife.
Each hut is equipped with a private bathroom, kitchenette, and king-sized bed. Designed as screen-free spaces, the accommodations are intended to encourage digital disconnection and deeper engagement with the surrounding natural environment.
The site is located within a wildflower meadow surrounded by reeds and water, where guests may observe native wildlife, including foxes, deer, dragonflies, and several bird species.
According to SoGlos, each hut is named after a different species of warbler, aligning with the auditory experience of waking to birdsong and sleeping to the movement of bats overhead.
Warblers’ Meadow guests receive complimentary admission to the Slimbridge Wetland Centre for the duration of their stay.
They also have access to exclusive activities such as private nature safaris, guided walks, and tours of the Scott House Museum, once home to conservationist Sir Peter Scott.
Slimbridge spans more than 100 acres and is home to a wide variety of birds, including nene geese, pelicans, five species of flamingo, and Asian short-clawed otters. During the winter season, the site hosts up to 30,000 migratory birds.
Pricing for accommodations varies. Two-berth huts start at £150 per night on weekdays and £175 on weekends, while four-berth huts begin at £175 on weekdays and £200 on weekends.
Bookings require a minimum two-night stay on weekdays and three nights on weekends. Due to the proximity of open water, the site is not recommended for families with children under seven.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the development at Slimbridge highlights a growing trend toward integrating conservation education with overnight stays.
By embedding lodging directly within wildlife reserves, businesses can expand seasonal revenue opportunities and attract a niche audience seeking low-impact, nature-focused experiences.
The model also demonstrates how traditional conservation sites can extend their appeal to overnight visitors, increasing dwell time and generating ancillary income while supporting environmental awareness. More information and bookings can be found at wwt.org.uk.