Abbotsbury Swannery

Truly a unique attraction, Abbotsbury Swannery gives visitors the opportunity to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. Situated near to Weymouth this attraction is very popular with visitors of all ages.

Abbotsbury Swannery was originally established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040′s. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish Dorset banquets. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution. Some of the ruins are still visible around St Nicholas’ Church in the village. Since that time the Swannery has been under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates.

Now you can look, observe and even feed the 600 swans in the two daily mass feeds. As well as the swans there is also a large willow maze to get lost in and childrens play park. Get a snack in the Kennels Cafe and of course take home a souvenier from the gift shop.

Please note that the swans at Abbotsbury are all free flying, this is a sanctuary, not a zoo. There are no cages.

Address - New Barn Rd, Abbotsbury, Dorset DT3 4JG