Outdoor activities at Wicken Fen

Ducks and birds on wetted fen — Wildfowl on rising wetland areas | © National Trust Images/Mike Selby

There are activities for all ages and abilities at Wicken Fen. Whether you want to explore the nature reserve by bicycle or enjoy a peaceful cruise along the waterways, you'll find something to make your visit memorable.

Take a hike

Enjoy a gentle stroll on the undrained Sedge Fen around the all-weather Boardwalk Trail, which is pushchair and wheelchair-friendly. Both wildlife hides on the route also provide access for wheelchairs. Extend your walk on this easy-access choice by taking a turn around the Woodland Walk, also suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Please note, assistance dogs only are allowed in the Sedge Fen.

In the summer months, June-September, our Summer Nature Trail is open for the full 2.25 miles around the Sedge Fen. It's great for wildflowers and getting away from the crowds.

Alternatively, for a longer walk, grab your walking boots and head for one of the Adventurers' Fen Trails. Mix and match a number of route options, following Wicken, Monks and Burwell Lodes, the Lodes Way cycle route and other paths across the reserve. Discover the grazing herds, and see how the newer areas of the reserve are attracting wildflowers and waders back in numbers. Check in at the visitor centre for advice on routes.

Join a walking group

Fancy joining one of our regular walking groups around the Fen and chatting to some friendly people as you go? We have walking groups that get together every Wednesday and Friday. Every Wednesday, a group meets in the car park at 10am for a healthy walk on the wider reserve. And on Fridays, you can join in with a Wicken Wellbeing walk, meeting at 10am in the visitor centre. This walk also takes place on the wider reserve and is a gentle-paced, social walk.

A family at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, Cambridgeshire — A family at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve | © National Trust Images/Oskar Proctor

Cycling routes

National Cycle Network Route 11 runs through the wider reserve and offers plenty of options for short rides and longer adventures. Part of this route, the Lodes Way, takes you from Wicken, across Burwell Fen and on to Anglesey Abbey, which is 8 miles away in the village of Lode.

To discuss the best routes to suit you, telephone the visitor centre in advance of your visit using the number below. Bring your own bikes and park in the main car park on Lode Lane.

Cycle hire (10 Mar - 2 Nov)

Please check with the Visitor Centre before you travel
Cycle hire opens daily at 10am, last hire 2:30pm for a return by 4:30pm.
We have a range of bikes available for hire including ebikes, trikes and children’s bikes. There’s no need to book for cycle hire unless you have specific requirements.
Helmets are available, although do bring your own if you have one.
Locks are available so that you can secure your bike whilst out on your ride.

Cycle hire rates (additional hours are charged on return)

Adult bike: £9.50 for 2 hours, then £3.75 per hour
Recumbent trike: £9.50
Child bike: £5.75 for 2 hours, then £2.50 per hour
Adult bike with child seat: £10.00 for 2 hours, then £3.75 per hour
Trailer/tag: £16.00 for 2 hours, then £3.75 per hour
Tandem: £19.50 for 2 hours, then £8.00 per hour
E-bike: £15 for 2 hours, then £5.75 per hour

New in – we now have dog trailers available for hire. £16 suitable for dogs up to 32kg – please bring your own blanket or pad for your dog to lie on.

Visitors on a boat trip at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, Cambridgeshire — Visitors on a boat trip at Wicken Fen, Cambridgeshire | © National Trust Images/Mike Selby

Boat trips (10 Mar - 2 Nov)

Sit back, relax and watch the world go by as you explore the beautiful fenland waterways on the Mayfly. The 50-minute trips run from mid-March to October.

Our open boat is powered by a quiet electric motor, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the Fen. Our expert driver will be able to let you know about the wildlife on the day, point out features of the Fen, and answer questions about fenland waterways and drainage.

Boat trips run dail throughout the summer. Please contact us on 01353 720274 to check dates, times and to book your place. In the event of unfavourable weather, please call us to check if the boat is running.

Prices

Adult £7.50, child £4.50 (under 1s go free), family £22.50 (two adults and two children)
The boat has capacity for 12 passengers, including babies
Minimum charge for hire of whole boat is £67.50 (but charged at per person rate if higher)
Pay on the day, in the Visitor Centre - non National Trust members please be aware, admission for Wicken Fen will also be required
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Dogs are not permitted on board (except assistance dogs)