The Centre for nature and conservation

Conservation of wildlife and wildlife habitats is the single most important part of Pensthorpe's work and future.  The Pensthorpe visitor experience combines the chance to bring the message of conservation and the beauty of nature to a as wide audience an audience as possible, from very young children to the actively retired.

The conservation work at Pensthorpe includes managing the range of habitats, both for existing wildlife populations and for encouraging biodiversity.   Biodiversity Action Plans have been formulated with the aim of encouraging existing species such as water voles, slow worms and the little ringed plover.  The information gained by this work will enable us to increase habitat and build a long-term picture of the status of wildlife populations. 

Pensthorpe has a unique range of wildlife habitats, arranged in a natural patchwork, and including:

• Breckland grass heath and scrub
• Water meadows beside the River Wensum
• Conservation Grade farmland with large field margins and set-aside
• Mixed deciduous and coniferous woodland managed carefully as a haven for birds and small mammals
• Waterbodies of varying depths, size and shape, edged by reeds, trees, grasses and rushes

You can explore these habitats in whichever season you visit, as the rich tapestry of the English countryside comes alive around you.