Families visiting WWT London Wetland Centre this spring will be able to take part in a new interactive outdoor adventure inspired by the children’s book Gozzle.
The special seasonal experience runs from 20 March to 31 May 2026, starting on the Spring Equinox, when nature begins to come alive after winter.
The activity invites children and families to explore wetlands while following the journey of a young gosling named Gozzle. The story was created by award-winning children’s author Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Sara Ogilvie.
A Story That Comes to Life in Nature
The spring event is designed to bring storytelling into the outdoors. Instead of only reading about Gozzle in a book, children can experience the story while exploring nature.
Visitors will follow an interactive trail through the wetlands, learning about birds, wildlife, and seasonal changes as spring begins.
The experience includes playful challenges and activities that encourage children to move, observe nature, and use their imagination.
For example, families can:
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Follow a trail showing Gozzle growing from a small gosling into a goose
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Search for 15 hidden mini Gozzle figures along the route
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Balance on stepping stones like birds walking across water
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Look for food among the reeds
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Strike fun animal poses inspired by wetland wildlife
The trail ends at a set of giant goose wings, where children can symbolically send Gozzle off on her first migration.
Authors Celebrate the Wetland Experience
Author Julia Donaldson, known for creating popular children’s books, said she was delighted to see the character brought to life in a real environment.
She explained that the wetlands provide a perfect setting for children to explore wildlife while following the story’s journey.
Illustrator Sara Ogilvie said the book focuses on the small but exciting discoveries that young animals make as they grow. She hopes children will experience the same sense of curiosity while exploring the wetlands.
Special Spring Activities for Children
Spring is one of the most active seasons for wildlife at the wetland centre. Birds begin nesting, plants start growing again, and many animals become easier to spot.
To make the visit more educational and interactive, additional family activities will also take place during Easter holidays and the May half-term school break.
One highlight is Gozzle’s Vet Check Station, where children can learn how wildlife experts care for birds.
At the activity station, children can:
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Examine bird X-rays
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Learn how veterinarians check animal health
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Practice measuring and caring for a toy goose
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Discover how wildlife conservation teams protect birds and habitats
These activities help introduce children to wildlife conservation and animal care in a fun, hands-on way.
Discover the Importance of Wetlands
The event also highlights the importance of wetlands for wildlife and the environment.
The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, which manages the centre, works to protect wetlands around the world. Wetlands provide important habitats for birds, fish, insects, and plants.
They also help control flooding, improve water quality, and support biodiversity.
By encouraging children to explore wetlands at a young age, the organisation hopes to inspire future generations to care about nature and conservation.
A Popular Nature Destination in London
The WWT London Wetland Centre is located in southwest London and is one of the city’s most important wildlife reserves.
Spread across over 100 acres, the site includes lakes, ponds, reed beds, and walking trails where visitors can see birds and other wildlife throughout the year.
Spring is one of the best seasons to visit, as many migratory birds return and animals become more active after winter.
Families Can Continue the Adventure at Home
After completing the trail, families can continue the story by reading the Gozzle picture book, which is available in the wetland centre’s gift shop.
The book tells the story of a young gosling learning about the world, growing stronger, and preparing for its first migration.
Visitor Information
The Gozzle wetland adventure is included with standard admission to the wetland centre and is free for members of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust.
The activity is designed especially for young children and families, offering a combination of storytelling, outdoor exploration, and educational play.
Organisers say the event is a great way for children to experience nature, learn about wildlife, and create lasting family memories during the spring season.
