Martin Mere Wetland Centre

Situated on the West Lancashire Coastal Plain, Martin Mere Wetland Centre is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Over 2,000 species of birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects have been recorded living at the reserve, and it’s also a haven for many native plants and fungi including some rare specimens.

The best time of year to visit is winter when huge flocks of pink-footed geese, Eurasian wigeon, pintails, pochards, and whooper swans arrive from their northern breeding grounds, alongside rarer birds such as the snow goose. Wintering birds of prey can also be spotted including hen harriers, peregrine falcons, and merlins.

In spring listen out for the songs of birds as they begin courting, while in the reedbeds keep an eye out for bearded tits, reed warblers, sedge warblers, and secretive booming bitterns. From inside the numerous hides, you’ll be able to get up close to nesting avocets, lapwings, and little ringed plovers, or sit and watch as chaffinches, greenfinches, tits, and great spotted woodpeckers collect food from the bird feeders nearby.

During summer, raptors can be seen hunting overhead and summer waders return to breed and feed. Large numbers of insects including dragonflies and butterflies, as well as wildflowers add a splash of colour throughout the site and it’s the best time of year to spot barn owls. Martin Mere is home to a flock of greater flamingos which have successfully bred at the reserve, so in summer you’ll have the opportunity to see the adorable grey chicks as they grow.

As the days become colder and shorter in autumn, ducks, geese, swans, and other wetland birds begin to arrive, and waders such as spotted redshanks, little stints, lapwings, and oystercatchers stop by on passage. With less foliage kingfishers and water rails are easier to spot, and you may get a chance to spot a rare bird including pectoral sandpipers, long-billed dowitchers, and Wilson’s phalarope which have all turned up in recent years.

Other attractions at the reserve include an otter enclosure, an eco garden, canoe safaris and boat tours, daily swan feeding, pond dipping, an adventure playground, as well as a variety of guided walks and talks. There’s also a well-stocked shop selling a variety of gifts, books, toys, and bird care, and a café serving breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks.

Please note, no dogs except for assistance dogs are allowed on the reserve.