Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre facts for kids
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| Established | 1987 |
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| Location | Stoke St Gregory, Somerset Levels |
The Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre is a cool place to visit in Stoke St Gregory, England. It's located in an area called the Somerset Levels, which is north-east of Taunton.
This centre is built on a real working farm. They grow and process willow plants here. You can take tours to see the willow fields, which are over 80 acres big! You'll also see where they prepare the willow and make baskets. The centre teaches you all about how willow has been important to the history of the Somerset Levels.
A Family's Willow Story
Growing Willow for Generations
The Coate family owns and runs the Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre. They have been growing willow on the Somerset Levels since 1819. That's over 200 years! They started making baskets in 1904.
Wicker's Popular Past
During the Victorian era, wicker furniture became very popular. People thought it was cleaner than other furniture because it collected less dust. Many people worked with willow back then. Some even processed the willow at home. The Coate family has kept their business going all this time.
How Willow Becomes Useful
The farm grows several types of willow on its 70 acres. Most of it is a type called Salix triandra. After the willow is cut, it's processed to create different colours. First, the willow is boiled. Then, its bark is removed. This used to be done by hand, but now machines do the work.
Willow for Charcoal
Besides making baskets, the company also uses willow to make Charcoal. They have been making charcoal since the 1960s. They sell it under their own brand and for other companies too.
Welcoming Visitors Since 1987
The centre first opened its doors in 1987. A famous TV presenter named David Bellamy officially opened it. The centre has made sure it's easy for everyone to visit. This includes people who have trouble seeing or moving around.
What You Can See and Do
Exploring the Exhibits
The Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre has many interesting exhibits. You can learn all about how willow is grown and processed. You'll also see how baskets are made. There's a video room that shows you the whole process.
The Basket Museum
Inside the basket museum, you'll find displays of old and unusual willow items. It's amazing to see all the different things that can be made from willow!
Discovering the Local Area
The Levels and Moors Exhibition tells you about the history of the local countryside. It explains how this area is connected to the traditional willow industry. There's also a display about the environment. It shows how important water is in shaping the Somerset Levels.
Guided Tours and Outdoor Paths
You can take a guided tour to see how willow is processed step-by-step. You'll also learn how wicker items are created. If you prefer, you can walk around the fields on your own. There are paths along the banks of the River Tone.
A Special Willow Sculpture
Near one of the paths, you'll find a wooden sculpture. It was carved by an artist named Louise Baker. This sculpture celebrates how important willow is to the industries of the Somerset Levels.
