Flutter by to see the Butterflies

If you’re looking for things to do, and great days out around the St. Albans area, then a drive to Butterfly World at Chiswell Green is one you might like to add to your list. Just under three miles from St. Albans, The Butterfly World Project is set among 27 acres, with landscaped gardens and outdoor spaces.

It is a £27 million project, launched in 2008, which was conceived by butterfly fanatic and lepidopterist, Clive Farrell. His dream was to create a tribute to the butterfly, and a dedicated centre of learning for the preservation of the species. Patrons of the project include Sir David Attenborough, Professor Dr David Bellamy, Alan Titchmarsh, and Emilia Fox.

The site of the project has been created in the shape of a butterfly's head, and as well as the Chrysalis Lake, and wild flower meadows, the outdoor areas also include picnic spaces and a children’s playground, and a large plant sales area. Inside attractions include the Butterfly Breeding House (called Antworld), the Insect Study Centre, The Nectar House Café, and gift shop.

The project’s focus for this year’s season is educating visitors about the life cycle of the butterfly and its importance for the environment.  There are regular insect handling sessions, and Antworld exhibits colonies of leaf cutter ants.

Butterfly World is open daily (including Bank Holidays), 10am – 5pm, and there are concessionary rates for groups, children and those aged 60 and over. Most of the site has been passed as disabled accessible, and there are two mobility scooters available to hire, although due to the format of the gardens and landscaping, it should be noted that not all the terrain throughout the project is smooth. There is free car parking on site, so no need to worry about where you might park your hired car from St. Albans Car and Van Hire. Enjoy your day out if you decide to visit!