Go wild at Weymouth's Radipole Lake (From Dorset Echo)

Go wild at Weymouth's Radipole Lake

10:23am Friday 31st August 2012 in News By Emma Walker

THE wild side of Weymouth can be found at the heart of the town.

A nature reserve in central Weymouth sounds unlikely but Radipole Lake offers visitors the chance to get amongst the reeds and lagoons.

Whether new to wildlife watching or an old hand, visitors to the RSPB site can enjoy seeing well-known birds such as house sparrows, finches and robins alongside uncommon or rare birds like cetti’s warblers and bitterns.

The Wild Weymouth Discover Centre looks out over the open water and hosts family activities which include pond dipping, arts and crafts and bird-watching for everyone.

Firm paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs take visitors to the best areas to see summer-visiting reed, sedge and grasshopper warblers.

Tom Clarke, Wild About Weymouth and Portland project officer, said: “From the chalk Ridgeway in the north, through the urban wetlands, sandy Weymouth Beach, underwater marine habitats, Chesil Beach, The Fleet, Portland quarries and all the way along the Weares to Portland Bill , Weymouth and Portland has so many different experiences to offer.

“I actually can’t think of another place that has all this right on its doorstep.

“We really want the area to shine and to show people what a wonderful place this is.

“Entry is free but donations are welcome to help the team continue with conservation work. The visitor centre is open daily between 9am and 5pm in summer, so come and enjoy.