Trentham Celebrates World Wetlands Day

Trentham joins wildlife enthusiasts around the world as they celebrate World Wetlands Day on Friday 2 February; a day dedicated to raising awareness and appreciation for wetlands and their benefits.

The Wetlands at Trentham

Trentham is so called because of the River Trent. Not that long ago, the valley that Trentham sits within would have teemed with life, including species now lost such as wolves and cranes. The Environment Agency believes that the UK has lost over 90 percent of our wetlands through drainage, canalisation and intensive agriculture. Despite this, Trentham is now bucking that trend by rewilding its wetlands.

Trentham Hopes For Osprey Return

An osprey is a spectacular fish-eating bird of prey which migrates from Africa to the UK for the nesting season. Historically, they have been persecuted for their perceived threat to freshwater fish stocks and were last seen around the Trentham area over 250 years ago. In a bid to tempt in this species, Trentham have built a 30-metre-high Osprey nest platform. Following extensive research, the nest has been splashed with white paint to imitate bird feces to display to an osprey that this is a productive place to live. If successful, it will be the first time in 250 years that the osprey calls Trentham home.

Beaver Family Make Themselves at Home

Beavers played a crucial role in the UK's wetland landscapes from prehistoric times until they were hunted to extinction in the 16th century. In 2023, Trentham welcomed a family of Eurasian beavers into a 182-acre enclosure and parkland lake setting in a partnership with the Beaver Trust. The enclosure is the largest Beaver enclosure in Britain, and allowed Trentham to re-introduce the native British species known for their keystone effect and benefits they bring to ecosystems to their land.

Trentham’s Beaver and Wildlife Ranger Harvey-Jay Tweats is thrilled with how successful the project has been. He said “Since their release, the family of beavers have welcomed 2 new kits and have been working hard rewilding the edge of the lake. It’s been incredible to witness their tree-felling and canal-digging activities as they create complex wetland for all manner of wildlife to thrive. Beavers do not kill trees, in fact they coppice them, which produces dense shrubs great for nesting birds. It’s exciting to witness the lake surrounds changing and new wildlife habitats being created”.

Embark on a Beaver Safari

Throughout Spring and Summer visitors can embark on a Beaver Safari, where they will learn about Trentham’s restoration and biodiversity from an experienced guide. Participants will develop observational skills and knowledge about UK wildlife, hear stories behind Trentham’s rewilding and learn the rich landscape history.

For more information visit Trentham’s website here.  

Wildlife Cruises on the Lake

The popular tourist attraction will be holding guided wildlife cruises every Wednesday 10 - 11am from 13^th March, aboard Trentham Estate's eco-friendly electric catamaran Miss Elizabeth. The cruise will give people the chance to learn about Trentham's commitment to conservation and spot a range of wildlife. As well as the chance to see the beavers, other wildlife they may spot at the site include water voles, weasels, herons and cormorants.

For more information visit Trentham’s website here. 

Up to 15% off Day Tickets throughout February with Winter Saver offer

Visit Trentham in February and take advantage of their Winter Saver offer. Trentham day entry tickets have been discounted by up to 15% throughout the whole month, allowing visitors to enjoy that extra day making special memories with their loved ones.

Plan a visit here, https://bit.ly/TrenthamWinterSaver

The Winter Saver offer is applicable to day ticket purchases only, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.