Boarstall, Bicester HP18 9UX
Boarstall Duck Decoy
The Boarstall Duck Decoy is a 17th-century duck decoy located in Boarstall, Buckinghamshire, England, and now a National Trust property. The system took advantage of a two-acre lake with pipe-cage tunnels running out of it. At one time a common sight in the English countryside, only four duck decoys now remain.
Location
About
Boarstall Duck Decoy: A Unique Tourist Attraction in Boarstall, England
Nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, England, lies the quaint village of Boarstall. Known for its beautiful countryside, historic architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, Boarstall is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. However, there is one attraction in Boarstall that is not to be missed: the Boarstall Duck Decoy.
The Boarstall Duck Decoy is a historic site that has been in operation for over 300 years. It was originally used to catch ducks for food and feathers, which were used to make pillows and mattresses. Today, the decoy is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
The decoy is made up of a series of ponds, channels, and tunnels that are designed to trap ducks. The decoy man, who was traditionally a skilled and experienced hunter, would use a variety of techniques to lure ducks into the traps. These techniques included the use of decoy birds, whistles, and even a specially trained dog.
Visitors to the Boarstall Duck Decoy can take a guided tour of the site, which includes a demonstration of how the decoy works. During the tour, visitors will learn about the history of the decoy and how it was used in the past. They will also have the opportunity to see the traps in action, as the decoy man uses traditional techniques to lure ducks into the traps.
One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to see the decoy birds in action. These birds are specially trained to attract other birds to the decoy site. They are placed in cages near the ponds and are used to lure ducks into the traps. Visitors can watch as the decoy birds perform their duties and see how effective they are at attracting other birds.
In addition to the tour of the decoy, visitors can also explore the surrounding countryside. Boarstall is known for its beautiful scenery, and there are plenty of walking trails and picnic areas nearby. The village also has a number of historic buildings, including the Boarstall Tower and the Church of St. James.
Overall, the Boarstall Duck Decoy is a unique and fascinating tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or simply want to experience something different, a visit to the decoy is well worth the trip. So next time you are in Buckinghamshire, be sure to add the Boarstall Duck Decoy to your list of must-see attractions.
Gallery
Opening Hours
| Tuesday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | Closed |