Abbotsbury Swannery is a unique colony of mute swans established by Benedictine monks around 1040, making it the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans. Up to 600 swans return annually to breed in the reed beds beside The Fleet lagoon, creating spectacular scenes especially during May and June when cygnets hatch. Visitors can walk among free-roaming swans, observe nesting behavior, and experience feeding times when hundreds of swans gather. The site demonstrates centuries of swan management traditions. The swannery originally supplied feathers and cygnets for monastic feasts. Today conservation and education drive the operation. Beautiful countryside, reed beds, and Fleet lagoon views enhance the wildlife spectacle. The swannery offers unique close encounters with magnificent waterfowl in semi-wild conditions. Educational talks explain swan biology, breeding, and conservation. Essential for bird lovers and families seeking memorable wildlife experiences in a historic setting.
Photo by David Dixon from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Abbotsbury Swannery
Location
Photo Gallery
Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more places within 10km
Abbotsbury Swannery
World's only managed mute swan colony, 1,000 years old, with 600+ swans nesting annually.
Chesil Beach & The Fleet Lagoon
Extraordinary 18-mile shingle beach with naturally graded pebbles protecting the Fleet Lagoon - unique landform.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Historic 20-acre subtropical garden with rare exotic plants and stunning coastal views.
Abbotsbury Village
Beautiful golden-stone village with thatched cottages and rich Benedictine abbey heritage.
Abbotsbury St Catherine's Chapel
Dramatic 14th-century hilltop chapel with spectacular coastal views - iconic Dorset landmark.
St Catherine's Chapel, Abbotsbury
14th-century hilltop chapel offering spectacular panoramic views across Chesil Beach and coast.