A rare black-crowned night heron has been recorded at the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate in Somerset, highlighting the impact of recent freshwater habitat restoration. Simultaneously, the National Trust has expanded accessibility at its Woodchester Park site in Gloucestershire by introducing an all-terrain mobility vehicle for visitor use.
Rare Wetland Species Sighted at Holnicote Estate
Conservationists in Somerset have confirmed the presence of a black-crowned night heron on the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate near Minehead. The species, which is typically found across regions in Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, is considered a rare visitor to the UK. According to reporting from the BBC, the sighting was captured via estate cameras.
The arrival of the heron follows an initiative by the estate to restore freshwater habitats, a project intended to create a refuge for various wildlife. Ben Eardley, the project manager for Somerset Coast and Countryside, noted the significance of the event for the local ecosystem.
“It’s rare to see this wetland species in the UK and so exciting that we have observed one on our estate cameras.”
Ben Eardley, project manager for Somerset Coast and Countryside
In addition to the night heron, the restored wetlands at Holnicote are now supporting a diverse range of species, including otters, water voles, pine martens, and white-tailed eagles.
Expanding Access at Woodchester Park
While the Holnicote Estate focuses on biodiversity, the National Trust site at Woodchester Park is prioritizing visitor inclusivity. The site has introduced a new all-terrain mobility scooter, known as a Tramper, available for hire at the Tinkley Gate entrance.
The vehicle is part of the Countryside Mobility Scheme, a network that now includes nearly 60 locations across the country. Neil Warren, project manager at Countryside Mobility, explained that the vehicle is designed for ease of use, even for those with no prior experience operating a mobility scooter.
“It tackles footpaths and tracks with ease and most importantly it is a safe and easy way for people who may never have used a mobility scooter before to get into nature, enabling friends and family to explore this beautiful location together.”
Neil Warren, project manager at Countryside Mobility
Booking and Membership Details
Visitors interested in using the all-terrain vehicle at Woodchester Park must undergo a short induction lasting approximately 10 minutes. Following this, the scooter can be hired for 2.5-hour slots, with one session available in the morning and one in the afternoon.
| Service Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| One-off usage | £3 |
| Annual Countryside Mobility Scheme membership | £15 |
The annual membership provides users with access to hire schemes at other locations across the Cotswolds. Kim Burrell, site manager at Woodchester Park, stated that the project represents a collaborative effort to improve infrastructure and connection between Tinkley Gate and the wider park landscape. She added, An all-terrain mobility vehicle on site for anyone to book is a huge step forward in realising our vision for the Tinkley Gate site to make nature open to all.
For those planning a visit, the site can be reached by calling 01453 860037 to speak with a National Trust team member for reservations. Further infrastructure improvements, including additional pathway developments, are currently planned to enhance connectivity throughout the Woodchester Park estate.
