Testimonials

"We had such a wonderful morning in beautiful surroundings. Jon is very knowledgable and a natural teacher. It was lovely to see my son relax and enjoy the experience, and he learnt so much about his camera and nature photography. Being in such close proximity to the birds was a real treat. We will definitely be going back."
~Lola Harrison


"Great environment to experience all species of wildlife from bugs and butterflies to birds and reptiles, together with knowledgeable photographic expertise on hand to instruct on all aspects, whether it be birds in flight, macro work, or just getting off that auto button. Its all there.
There is also a facility to try before you buy on cameras and Lenses, no better place to have a go before you spend your money.
Give it a go, you wont be disappointed."
~Nige Walkley

"Great variety of birds to be found, both the hides are the perfect size for two people with plenty of room to spare, Jon was very informative and quite obviously loves the place and now I can see why, book with confidence you won't be disappointed and you never know what will be there, me and my wife can't wait to book a return visit very soon."
~Paul Jackson


"I booked a 2-hour session with Jon to improve my understanding of my new camera and to elevate my basic photography skills.
The experience was fantastic. Jon was very generous in sharing his knowledge and time and explained everything perfectly.
Lake Pochard is a stunning location, offering many opportunities to capture wildlife through the lens.
After our initial session, I have greater confidence and understanding. I'm excited to explore photography and make the most of my camera. I'm already looking forward to booking further tuition with Jon soon."
~Vikki Sharpe


"An inspired birthday gift for teenage son was a guided walk here. We thoroughly enjoyed the morning with our very knowledge guide, Jon. Jon takes the time to engage with all members of the group and encourage, suggest viewpoints/ settings for the best photos. We got to see many insects, a grass snake and lots of birds during our visit. We will definitely be back for time in the hide and to get some photography tuition. Thanks so much."
~Samantha Starr

"Around 15 different species of birds seen and more to be heard in the time spent in the hide.
Lovely setting, with lots of natural places for the birds to land for photos - the reflection pool a great addition.
2 hours goes very quickly in this peaceful setting."
~ Jacqui Piper

"Had a great session with Jon today helping me set up and use my new camera and lenses. Fantastic setting with some stunning wildlife that gives newbies like me many options"
~Dudley Simpkins

"What a fantastic morning spent with Jon on Lake Pochard. A vast variety of birds and wildlife, and some amazing hides allowing you get to up close and personal with nature. Loved the reptile areas, as it’s not something I normally see whilst out and about. Learnt a lot of very useful tips from Jon today that I will no doubt start to use daily. Looking forward to my next session. I would 100% recommend a session with Jon on Lake Pochard Wildlife Haven!! You will learn anything you need about photography! The lake and his hides really live up to the Wildlife Haven name." ~Tom Hancock
"Spent this morning with Jon, down at the lake pochard wildlife haven.
Learnt so much today and how to get the best out of my Canon EOS R7.
I’d thoroughly recommend Jon to anyone who wants to learn more about wildlife photography, and how to get the most out of your photographic equipment, his knowledge is superb."
~David Churchill


"Very knowledgeable and friendly staff.
Super helpful when it comes to getting the perfect photo.
The place itself is lovely and so brilliantly managed to help wildlife thrive.
Lots of species to catch sight of and always something different to see each time you go.
If you are into wildlife and photography I would highly recommend a visit."

"Very enjoyable visit to Lake Pochard over the weekend, and received a very warm welcome from Jon and Mitch. Before we even got to the hides I was lucky enough to see two mating great crested grebes which was a real privilege.
The hides are very comfortable and lots of bird life comes within a good distance to get some nice shots. Thank you - will definitely be back!"
~Katie McGoldrick

"The environment that has been set up by the team at Lake Pochard Wildlife Haven has been set up and created to provide a window for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.
The combined knowledge and enthusiasm of the team with respect to maintaining/preserving natural habitats should be applauded and greatly enhances the experience. One visit is not enough."
~Pete Wilson

"A fantastic visit during their open day this morning. Spent a brilliant few hours exploring the site which is very peaceful and full of wildlife. Jon and Mitch were very welcoming and extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife and photography, I’d highly recommend."

"Really enjoyed my first visit to Lake Pochard, can’t wait to go again, everyone very friendly, looking forward to using the hides, thank you Jon and Mitch!"
~Carolyn June Ritchings

"Great Morning spent at Lake Pochard photographing wildlife. A lovely location, peaceful spot and a friendly welcome. Also gained a few photography tips for photographing the local wildlife. Looking forward to my next visit"
~Paul Johns

"I had a lovely morning being guided round Lake Pochard Wildlife Haven by Jon and Mitch.
They passionately told me about all the flowers, insects and birds that we spotted or heard and those they are trying to encourage to visit with all the hard work they are putting in to maintaining the site.
A lesson in bird calls and a few photography tips were thrown in along the way.
The absolute highlight was a Muntjac trotting towards us. I will return!"
~Louise Harney

"Wow, what a fantastic time at Lake Pochard Wildlife Haven.
Staff were very polite and helpful. Well worth a visit with your camera"
~Mark Page

"Met by John and Mitch at the gates early on a Sunday morning to prepare for our private hide morning. Both gentlemen were friendly and knowledgeable, and gave great advice and guidance to get us started.
During the morning we were greeted by Swans, Geese, Grebes, Woodpeckers, Finches, Buntings and many more. 
A flash of a Kingfisher in the distance means I might have to go back to spend more time looking for him. Thanks guys. Great morning out."
~Andrew Slucock

"What a lovely site, sensitively managed by our hosts, Jon and Mitch who are so knowledgeable about all the wildlife and also excellent photographers giving hints and tips to get the most out of your visit.
The island where two hides are situated is perfect with various feeders and perches to encourage the wildlife. We are already discussing when to return and hire the hides.
Bonus, toilets and restaurant on site which also caters for Carp fishermen, holiday makers and wildlife photographers.
What's not to like."
~Alwyn Bodman

"If you're considering a visit then I 100% recommend it...
Lake Pochard really is the most peaceful, relaxing and beautiful place's around Wiltshire, that is maintained and looked after to the absolute highest standards by the team whole team.
The staff are absolutely amazing, Jon, Mitch and the crew are absolutely amazing at what they do and spend many hours on maintaining and caring for the lake and wildlife to the highest standards, and charge a minimal charge for walkabouts which are packed full with knowledge and expertise.
All staff at LPWH are genuinely passionate about the wildlife, mammals, flora and fauna found at the haven and do everything in their power to keep the whole area peaceful, clean, well looked after, which ensures that every visit is a good one.
I have been visiting the lake regularly since December and never tire of seeing the passion involved and put into ensuring that everyone who visits Lake Pochard leaves pleased and enjoys their time spent there."
~Louise Scriver

"Recently I attended a wonderfully relaxing lakeside walkabout at Lake Pochard Wildlife Haven. If you love nature, bird spotting, photography or just want to escape the busy everyday life then I strongly recommend one of their walkabouts."

"Highly recommended. The VIP experience we had today was really informative and enjoyable. We were so lucky to see lots of wildlife and Jon helped us with camera settings and equipment.
Would love to go back."
~Laura Hobbs

"I had a wonderful couple of hours with Jon and Mitch learning all about what they’ve been doing with the area over the last year which was amazing. Their knowledge and passion for the Haven is infectious. The wildlife we saw was fantastic… 16 different birds I think and that was on a slightly drizzly winter’s day (which didn’t detract from the experience at all!).
Absolutely loved it and would highly recommended!!"
~Fran Reed