Boarstall Duck Decoy

Boarstall Duck Decoy is a rare survival of a 17th-century device for catching waterfowl, once a common sight on rural estates and now one of only a handful left in England. Ducks were lured off the lake into a long tapering tunnel, or pipe, by a decoyman and his trained dog, and the Home Pipe still shows how it was done. The lake sits in 13 acres of woodland known for bluebells and other spring flowers, nesting birds and several species of bat, with a natural play area for children. The Trust says the site is currently closed to visitors for essential tree and maintenance works, so check before setting out. When it is open, dogs are welcome on leads throughout the site, with water bowls provided. Reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides, the display about decoys in the hut, the bird hide overlooking the water and paths easy enough for small children. One tip from regular visitors: hear the guide's short explanation before setting off round the lake. The Trust recommends stout footwear because the paths can become muddy.