| Wolseley Centre | |
| Map: | Staffordshire |
| Location: | near Rugeley, Staffordshire |
| Coordinates: | 52.7803°N -1.9644°W |
| Grid Ref Uk: | SK 025 203 |
| Operator: | Staffordshire Wildlife Trust |
| Website: | https://www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/explore/our-visitor-centres/wolseley-centre |
The Wolseley Centre is a visitor centre and nature reserve of the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, in Staffordshire, England, about 2miles north-west of Rugeley, and about 7miles south-east of the county town of Stafford.
The Trust has two visitor centres; the other is at Westport Lake in Stoke-on-Trent.[1]
The site was formerly the gardens of Wolseley Hall, which was built in the late 17th century. The hall was demolished in 1966; in the 1990s there was some restoration of the gardens, by Sir Charles Wolseley. The site was later converted into a nature reserve, and it has been the headquarters of the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust since 2003.[2] [3] [4]
From November 2018 the site was redeveloped, to have a new café with views across the adjacent lake, an improved car park and other features across the site.[5] The redeveloped centre was officially opened on 12 June 2019 by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire.[6]
There are of grounds, including woodlands, lakes, pools and marshland, in which there are wildlife habitats. A boardwalk enables views of pools and marshland. There are wildflower meadows and display gardens, and a sensory garden. The paths and boardwalk are suitable for wheelchair users.[4]