Sevenoaks Visitor Centre Refurbishment

Why are we refurbishing the Jeffrey Harrison Visitor Centre?

Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and the Jeffrey Harrison Visitor Centre attract thousands of visitors each year but is in urgent need of modernisation. 

The upgrades aim to provide an ideal base for educational activities, study days, holiday clubs, and family visits as well as providing an ongoing haven for wildlife with opportunities to see the impact of wilding on the former gravel pit.

The accessibility improvements include dedicated blue-badge parking, better access from the car park to the centre, improved accessible toilets and baby change facilities and dedicated parent and child parking. The changes will enable more people to easily access the site, aligning with Kent Wildlife Trust’s vision to encourage more individuals to take meaningful action for nature.

What will you be doing to improve the site?

The reserve boasts five picturesque lakes surrounded by lush woodlands, along with seasonally flooded pools, grasslands, and small reedbed areas. However, the current lack of windows in the centre limits visitors' ability to connect with the natural beauty of the reserve from within the building. The addition of full-height windows will transform the experience, offering breathtaking views of the west lake and enhancing the connection between the facilities and the surrounding landscape.

Once the refurbishment is complete, the building will be energy-efficient with an extended catering area, improved café and retail space, and a flexible event area available for hire. 

New double doors will open onto the lake, leading to a decking area with seating for visitors to observe the abundant wildfowl attracted to this nature-rich habitat. The improvements will also include a new secure play area for children, and the car park, which is currently uneven and has potholes, will be resurfaced. 

In response to recent incidents of theft and anti-social behaviour on the site, security measures will be significantly upgraded with the installation of fencing, cameras, and improved lighting to deter crime. 

Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve will remain open

Whilst the centre itself temporarily closed on 15th December 2024, the wildlife reserve will remain open, accessible for people to birdwatch and enjoy walks around the trails and the Trust’s organised events will run as usual. The charity is advising people to check their website before visiting, to make sure that the carpark is open and there are no restrictions that may impact their visit.

Visitor Centre Manager James Davis says: 

“This is an incredibly exciting time for this flagship nature reserve and visitor centre. Once the works are completed, we will be better positioned to reach a wider audience and help more people connect with nature. 

“Nature is in crisis, and the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Providing a space where everyone of any age and particularly young people can learn about wildlife will inspire them as they grow into the future decision-makers who will shape our country.”