Welcome to Friends of Bewl Water!

Rangers' View – A New Season Begins

Welcome to our March blog and the launch of our brand-new membership, Friends of Bewl Water. More than just a subscription, your membership helps protect the future of South East England’s largest reservoir.

Our commitment to protecting the natural environment lies at the heart of everything we do. With Friends of Bewl Water, we’re proud to offer not only an array of valuable membership perks but, more importantly, a meaningful way for you to contribute to the long-term conservation of this cherished natural haven.

Through your membership, you directly support vital conservation projects undertaken by our hardworking team of Rangers, from caring for the woodlands to protecting local wildlife and their habitats. We’ll be keeping both members and non-members updated on all the incredible work your support makes possible, so be sure to check back regularly for the latest updates on our conservation efforts.

Your Contribution to Conservation

Your membership fee goes directly towards safeguarding Bewl Water’s unique ecosystem. Every aspect of this initiative has been carefully crafted to support the ongoing conservation efforts that keep Bewl Water a sanctuary for flora and fauna alike.

Our dedicated Rangers work tirelessly across Bewl Water, managing the land, water, and wildlife. This March, our six rangers have been maintaining Bewl Water’s fishing boat fleet, ensuring all 54 boats are thoroughly cleaned inside and out, with engines serviced and repaired. They’ve also varnished new anchors and oars, keeping them in top condition for the season ahead.

Fishing has long been a cherished tradition at Bewl Water, bringing together a community of anglers who not only enjoy the sport but also play a vital role in supporting the health of the reservoir. By maintaining the boat fleet to the highest standards, we ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for visitors while preserving this much-loved pastime for generations to come.

In addition to boat maintenance, the team has been clearing overgrown vegetation along sections of the banks and continuing the coppicing process at Bramble Bay under a felling licence. Coppicing is a traditional woodland management technique where trees are cut close to the ground during autumn and winter to encourage new shoots, creating a sustainable cycle of growth and harvesting over 7–20 years.

 

Membership Perks with a Purpose

While your membership is fundamentally about conservation, we also want you to enjoy the many perks that come with being a Friend of Bewl Water as a thank you for your support.

Within four weeks of joining, you’ll receive your member’s pack in the post, including your membership card for exclusive discounts, a car sign for free parking, and a packet of Bewl’s Bee & Butterfly seeds—so you can bring a little of Bewl’s beauty to your own garden.

Here’s a look at the exclusive benefits you enjoy as a valued member of Bewl Water:

  • Complimentary parking all year round – Enjoy hassle-free visits with free parking, making it even easier to spend time at Bewl Water.
  • 10% discount on parties, activities & café treats – Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying an adventure like Laser Tag or Aqua Park, or simply relaxing at the Waterfront Café, your membership gives you more for less.
  • 10% discount on camping & yurts – Plan your perfect outdoor escape with discounted stays, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature at Bewl Water.
  • 12 free Soft Play tickets – Keep little ones entertained with free access to our Soft Play area 12 times a year, offering a fun indoor space for families to enjoy.
  • Early access to ticketed events – Be the first to secure tickets to our popular events, ensuring you never miss out on the best experiences at Bewl Water.
  • 25% off Brakeburn Clothing – Enjoy exclusive savings on stylish outdoor clothing from Brakeburn.
  • Member newsletters – Stay informed with updates on upcoming events, special offers, and exclusive insights to help you make the most of your visits.
  • A lasting legacy – We’ll plant a spring bulb for every membership purchased, providing an early nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when food is scarce.

What to Expect from Upcoming Blogs

Each month, we will be sharing a series of blog posts that offer deeper insights into the conservation efforts at Bewl Water and the impact of your membership.

Look forward to a meet and greet with our dedicated team behind our conservation work, revealing the passion and commitment of the Rangers who keep Bewl Water beautiful. Discover how your membership is helping nature bloom, with stories that highlight the subtle yet powerful impact of our spring bulb planting and other initiatives. Get an insider’s glimpse into a day in the life of a Bewl Water Ranger, where you’ll see firsthand the challenges and triumphs of protecting our natural environment.

Join Us in Protecting Bewl Water

As you enjoy the benefits of your membership, know that every moment spent at Bewl Water is also a moment that contributes to its preservation. Your involvement goes far beyond the perks you receive—it supports a legacy of conservation that will benefit future generations. The work we do today is laying the groundwork for a future where Bewl Water remains a thriving ecosystem, full of life and beauty.

We’re truly grateful for your support and for being an integral part of our conservation efforts. Your membership is a clear demonstration of your commitment to nature, and together, we’re making Bewl Water a better place for wildlife and for all who visit.

Once again, thank you for your support. We look forward to seeing you around Bewl Water, where every visit, every benefit, and every planted bulb is a step towards a greener, more sustainable future.