Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre, Gloucester

Founded in 1946 by artist and naturalist Sir Scott, the Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre is just 30 minutes drive from Bristol and is a bird-lover's paradise. Hire binoculars to see them up close, them being the world's largest collection of ducks, geese and swans, plus all six types of Flamingo. Watch the hummingbirds in the tropical house, follow the trails through 50 hectares of grounds, or check out the views over the River Severn from their observation tower. Which birds you see depends on the season you visit. If you're into swans, come in the winter when thousands of them migrate here—one female swan named Casino, has wintered at Slimbridge for the last 27 years! There's also a licensed restaurant, picnic areas, gift/book shop, free parking, a safe play area for kids, plus excellent wheelchair access throughout the centre, including free wheelchair hire and purpose-built toilets.