Take a Walk on the Wild side

With 354 recorded bird species, native mammals such as red deer and otters, and millions of creepy crawlies that include tiger moths and common lizards, Lancashire’s wilder side offers up some great days out. 

From the rugged moorlands of Bowland to the dramatic sands of Morecambe Bay, the county’s varied coast and countryside is home to world-famous breeding grounds and attracts birdwatchers from across the globe eager for a sight of its rare species.  

From the hen harrier in its hillside home to the red throated diver on the shores of the Irish Sea, Lancashire is a mecca for bird lovers throughout the year. 

Wild facts 

• 80% of Lancashire is rural 
• 137 miles of coastline in Lancashire 
• ¼ million birds spend winter on the Ribble Estuary 
• BBC Autumnwatch has previously broadcast from Lancashire 

Nature reserves and wildlife hotspots 

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Nr Ormskirk 
In late September to the end of October, Martin Mere becomes home to up to thirty thousand pink-footed geese. These birds travel over from Iceland for the winter months and can be witnessed, along with other unique birds, from many of the hides dotted around the mere.  

Take a full day to explore the centre, including hand feeding more than 100 types of rare and endangered water-birds, meeting the family of otters and walking around the inspirational eco-garden. Walks and talks are also available throughout the year.  

Brockholes, Nr Preston 
Owned by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, this 250-acre reserve provides a network of trails and hides, woodland walks and a vast lake, all of which have been specially designed to attract all kinds of wildlife.  

Throughout the autumn and winter months Brockholes host many great events, including their popular night walks and stargazing, where you get to explore and learn more about the reserve and night sky. 

RSPB Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay Nature Reserve, Silverdale  
This popular nature reserve is home to a variety of wonderful creatures – from birds and bugs to bats and otters. If you are lucky, you may even spot their largest resident, the red deer. 

In the autumn months parties of bearded tits congregate in family parties to gather grit from the trays along the causeway and huge flocks of starlings may be seen wheeling above the reedbed before going to roost. 

Rossall Point, Fleetwood 
Standing forty-two feet above the seafront, this modern observation tower has been built to look like it is leaning into the wind. Find information about the local area inside as well as two observation decks, perfect for bird watching or taking in the views over the beach to the Irish Sea and Morcambe Bay.  

Wyre Estuary Country Park 
Situated on the banks of the River Wyre, this award-winning Green Flag country park provides spectacular estuary and riverside views, where you will find a wide range of habitats and wildlife, including excellent birdwatching opportunities.