WWT London Wetland Centre in Barnes is encouraging visitors and wildlife supporters to think about the future of Britain’s wetlands through its latest legacy campaign.
With around 75% of the UK’s wetlands lost, gifts left to WWT in wills can help protect wildlife, restore habitats and support conservation work for generations to come.
1. Gifts in wills help fund WWT’s conservation work
Around £1 in every £5 donated to WWT comes from gifts left in wills. This funding supports wetland restoration, wildlife conservation, scientific research and the ongoing care of places including WWT London Wetland Centre.
The charity says even relatively small legacy gifts can contribute towards long-term projects designed to protect wetlands well into the future.
2. UK wetlands are under increasing pressure
Wetlands can help reduce flooding, store carbon, improve water quality and provide habitats for wildlife, but they are disappearing rapidly.
Climate change is adding further pressure, with prolonged periods of drought drying out wetlands while heavier winter rainfall and flooding can damage delicate habitats.
WWT wants to create and restore 100,000 hectares of wetlands as part of its wider conservation ambitions.
3. Wildlife is already benefiting at WWT London
Visitors to WWT London Wetland Centre can see the results of long-term habitat management across its 105-acre nature reserve.
In 2026, two Lapwing chicks successfully fledged following changes to the way wetland habitats at the reserve were managed — an encouraging sign for a species that has faced significant declines in the UK.
4. Pelican Creek is one of the centre’s newest attractions
WWT London opened Pelican Creek in 2026, an immersive Australian wetland experience featuring 10 Australian pelicans.
It is the only flock of Australian pelicans in the UK, and visitors can walk through their habitat while learning more about wetland wildlife and conservation in Australia.
The attraction adds another reason to visit the London Wetland Centre alongside its lakes, reedbeds, wildlife hides and seasonal family activities.
5. You can leave a gift to WWT in your will
WWT is asking people who care about wildlife and wetlands to consider including the charity in their will.
Supporters can request a free guide explaining how legacy giving works and how a gift could support future conservation projects.
Find out more about leaving a gift in your will at WWT Legacies.
WWT London Wetland Centre is in Barnes, Richmond upon Thames, and offers more than 100 acres of wetlands, lakes, pools and grassland to explore. Every visit also helps support WWT’s conservation work.
Find out more about visiting at WWT London Wetland Centre.