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Description

Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out or are passionate about nature, there’s a world of wetland wildlife waiting to be discovered by you at Castle Espie Wetland Centre.

Set on the shores of the stunning Strangford Lough where almost the entire world’s population of Brent Geese resides during the autumn and winter months, WWT Castle Espie is a tranquil and welcoming centre for everyone.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out or are passionate about nature, there’s a world of wetland wildlife waiting to be discovered by you at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre.

Get up close to Ireland's largest collection of native and exotic birds, ducks and geese from around the world or simply explore our woodland and shore-view walks, and dedicated bird hides all while enjoying spectacular views across Strangford Lough.

Add to that our magical sensory garden, Graffan gallery, gift shop and Kingfisher Kitchen cafe and you are left with an unforgettable day out for everyone.

40% of all species live or breed in wetlands yet 87% of the world's wetlands have been lost over the past 300 years with one million wetland animal and plants species threatened with extinction. Wetlands play an important role in flood mitigation, the filtration of pollutants, and store more carbon than the world’s forests combined.

Know that your visit to our centre at Castle Espie contributes towards the vital conservation work on Strangford Lough and beyond.
  • 78 Ballydrain Road
  • Belfast
  • Antrim
  • BT23 6EA

Top Reasons To Visit

  • Epic wildlife spectacles
  • Fantastic year round events and exhibitions
  • Learn about WWT’s important conservation work
  • Take in the breath-taking scenery overlooking Strangford lough
  • Free access to cafe, gift shop, gallery and soft play area

Bing’s Nature Explorers

26.84 KM
29 Mar - 02 Jun 2024
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Learn all about wetland nature and wildlife with a little help from Bing and his friends.

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
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Wee Critters

26.84 KM
Fri, 29 Mar 2024, 12:00pm

Join Allan the Explorer and his family of ‘Wee Critters’ at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre this Easter for a wild adventure.

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
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Wee Birds Art Workshop – Experience AND 2024

26.84 KM
Sun, 14 Apr 2024, 2:00pm

Families will be welcomed by Marianne from Boom! Studios, based in Bangor, who will lead a "Wee Birds" art session.

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Birdwatch Morning

26.84 KM
Wed, 24 Apr 2024, 10:30am

Join Castle Espie's experts as they take a closer look at the wonderful variety of birds across their wetland reserve.

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
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Mrs Maker’s Mucky Ducks – Experience AND 2024

26.84 KM
Mon, 06 May 2024, 11:00am

A fun creative experience for little ones this Bank Holiday Monday. Let their imaginations run free in mucky ducky land!

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Wellness at the Wetlands – Experience AND 2024

26.84 KM
Sun, 09 Jun 2024, 9:30am

Join host Tessa Ann, of The Sound Healing Spa, who will guide you on a sound healing experience allowing you the opportunity to relax and unwind.

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Mrs Maker’s Spooky Masquerade

26.84 KM
Wed, 30 Oct 2024, 11:00am

Join local artist Kerrie, aka Mrs Maker, and get into the Halloween spirit by creating masks of your favourite animals or your crazy imaginary creatures!

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
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