In a remarkable celebration of a century dedicated to wildlife conservation, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT) is opening its doors— or rather, its nature reserves— for free this weekend. From Friday to Sunday, visitors can explore the breathtaking landscapes managed by the UK’s oldest wildlife trust, an initiative that highlights both the organisation’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to preserving nature.
A Historical Legacy
Founded in 1926 by the visionary Dr. Sydney Long, the NWT began its journey when he purchased 435 acres of marshland at Cley next the Sea. This area was designated as a “bird-breeding sanctuary for all time,” and today, Cley Marshes continues to draw over 100,000 visitors annually. The acquisition of Cley Marshes was pivotal, as it set the foundation for what would evolve into a nationwide network of county wildlife trusts across the UK.
Eliot Lyne, the chief executive of NWT, expressed his pride in leading such a historic organisation during this milestone. “It is a great honour to be at the helm of such a landmark organisation for UK nature conservation,” he stated, reflecting on the trust’s significant achievements over the past century.
Looking Forward with Hope
As the NWT marks this centenary, Lyne emphasised the ongoing challenges that nature faces in Norfolk. “It’s incredible to think that the UK-wide country wildlife trust movement began with the purchase of Cley Marshes a century ago,” he noted. “Following 100 years of wildlife conservation in Norfolk, we have achieved so much — and honed the skills and experience to secure a wilder, healthier and more prosperous Norfolk into the next century.” However, he acknowledged that the threats to local ecosystems remain significant, prompting the trust to raise its ambitions for the future.
A Special Message from David Attenborough
Adding a touch of honour to the celebrations, famed broadcaster and natural historian David Attenborough—who himself turns 100 this year—extended his heartfelt congratulations to the NWT. In a special message, Attenborough commended the trust for reaching this significant milestone. He has a personal connection to Cley Marshes, having inaugurated Attenborough’s Walk there in June 2015, further cementing the bond between his legacy and the trust’s mission.
Conservation Success Stories
Throughout its century-long journey, the NWT has played a vital role in the recovery of several species in Norfolk. Notable successes include the crane, bittern, purple emperor butterfly, and natterjack toad, which have all benefitted from the trust’s conservation efforts. In 2025, the NWT expanded its reserves by acquiring an additional 100 acres of ancient woodland at Foxley Wood, a site that has been in existence for approximately 6,000 years and is classified as a site of special scientific interest.
Why it Matters
The centenary of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust is not just a celebration of its past triumphs; it serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle for biodiversity in the face of climate change and habitat loss. With every free weekend in nature, the trust reaffirms its commitment to inspire future generations to cherish and protect our natural heritage. As the NWT prepares for its next century, its mission resonates louder than ever: protecting the environment is not merely a task but a shared responsibility that requires the collective effort of all.
