Lyndon Visitor Centre, located on the south shore of Rutland Water Nature Reserve and home to the iconic Rutland Ospreys, has had an exciting makeover.
During the last lockdown, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust worked with Leicester- based arts group Graffwerk to update the centre, making it more interactive and engaging for visitors. Graffwerk created custom wildlife murals which depict some of the wonderful species that can be found at Rutland Water Nature Reserve, new interpretation panels were also installed, and the layout of the centre updated.
Laura Brady, Visitor Centre Manager says: “We were so excited to have the chance to collaborate with Graffwerk; their work is amazing and what they have created for the centre is brilliant. When you visit us, you might just spot our cheeky water vole chopping his grass as you walk to the front door and be sure to look up as your leave for our woodland walk to get the most amazing view of our spectacular painted barn owl on the gable end of the building! For those with a good eye, be sure to take a stroll to Teal Hide, our educational and family hide, and pay a visit to our larger-than-life otter! Teal Hide has also had the most unbelievable makeover, with enormous animals decorating the inside of the hide!”
Family Activities
Inside the centre are brand new interpretation panels which provide visitors with lots of information about the ospreys and other wildlife they might spot on a visit through the nature reserve. Plus, they can watch ospreys live via the webcam on a TV screen, browse a selection of local products and gifts, and buy light refreshments.
Over weekends and school holidays, families can go along and take part in wildlife trails. Simply pick up a spotter sheet from the centre and start your adventure, seeing how many trail disks you can find!
The makeover was funded by the Augean Community Fund. Laura says: “We are so happy with how the centre looks and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back this year.”
Watch the Ospreys
The floor to ceiling windows offer views across Rutland Water before visitors head out on walks through the Lyndon nature reserve along the south shore, through wildflower meadows and onto the bird hides.
The furthest two birdwatching hides are the best places from which to see the iconic ospreys from during the spring and summer months. Laura says: “Our star pair – Maya and 33(11) – nest out in the middle of Manton Bay, surrounded by water. Waderscrape Hide has volunteers in the hide throughout the season, ready to answer any questions and help you make the most of your experience.”
The centre is open every day between March and September, from 9am to 5pm. Facilities include a car park, toilets and picnic area. The paths around the centre are wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly and there is an electric buggy available for hire.
