About the reserve

The vast expanse of Essex & Suffolk Water’s Abberton Reservoir is one of Europe’s most important wetland sites. It holds international significance as a safe haven for wild ducks, swans and other waterbirds, whether resident, migrating through, or spending the winter here.

Situated close to key east-coast migration routes, and surrounded by pasture and tree plantations, the reservoir provides a vital resting place for exhausted birds. Each year up to 40,000 ducks, swans and geese visit the site. The most commonly seen species include Wigeon, Teal, Mallard, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Coot and Black-headed Gull, with large numbers of Shoveler, Gadwall, Goldeneye, Pintail and Great Crested Grebe also frequently recorded.

In spring, visitors can witness the unusual sight of Cormorants nesting in trees—one of the few places in Britain where this occurs. This has been taking place since 1981 and continues to this day. Late summer brings the striking spectacle of swans and ducks moulting on the reservoir, during which they are temporarily flightless as they replace all their flight feathers at once.

In dry winters, falling water levels expose extensive mudflats, attracting large numbers of passage waders such as Ruff and Spotted Redshank from the coast. The surrounding farmland also plays an important role, supporting thousands of Golden Plover in winter, along with smaller numbers of migratory geese and swans. For keen birdwatchers, the reservoir has an impressive record of rarities, which may be seen briefly during winter or while passing through on migration.

Visitors can enjoy walks around the nature reserve, taking in stunning panoramic views across the reservoir from three accessible hides.

Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Centre is situated within the reserve and offers a range of visitor facilities in a single, accessible hub. It includes a café serving hot and cold refreshments, a well-stocked shop with wildlife gifts, binoculars and bird food, interactive displays, and information about the reserve. The centre also has toilets with accessible and baby-changing facilities, a meeting room available for hire, and indoor seating with views across the reservoir.

Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Centre