WWT Martin Mere

Located in Burscough, Lancashire, WWT Martin Mere is a massive wetland nature reserve that’s a big hit for families and wildlife fans alike. You should probably set aside 3 to 4 hours to see it all, though bird watchers could easily spend the whole day tucked away in the hides.

What to Do and See
The main draw is the incredible variety of birds. You can grab a bag of grain and get up close to friendly geese and ducks from all over the world. If you’re there during the winter, the spectacle of thousands of wild Whooper swans and Pink-footed geese arriving is something even the most restless teenager might find impressive.

• The Canoe Safari and Boat Tours: This is a highlight from spring through autumn. You can hire a canoe or hop on a guided boat to meander through the reeds. It feels like a mini-adventure and is great for seeing water voles.
• The Adventure Playground: This isn’t just a tiny swing set; it’s a substantial, tiered wooden play area with zip wires and climbing frames. It’s designed to burn off serious energy while parents grab a breather nearby.
• The Eco-Garden and Pond Dipping: Usually a winner for primary school kids who want to get hands-on catching mini-beasts.

Age Groups and Interest

• Young Children: They will love the feeding and the playground. The paths are flat and pram-friendly, making it easy for parents.
• Teenagers: Might find the “birding” side a bit slow, but the canoe safari usually wins them over.
• Adults: It’s a very peaceful, “interesting” day out rather than high-octane entertainment. It’s perfect if you want a scenic walk with great photography spots.
• Supervision: While the play areas are self-contained, there is a lot of open water around the reserve, so younger children definitely need a close eye kept on them.

Planning Your Visit

• Discounts and Perks: There are reduced rates for seniors and students. If you have a Blue Light Card, it’s worth checking for a discount at the gate. If you live nearby, annual membership is a fantastic deal because it gets you into all WWT centres across the UK for free.
• Food and Parking: Parking is plentiful and free. There is an on-site cafe serving hot meals and snacks, which is decent quality but can get busy. If you want a more traditional pub vibe, The Ship at Haskayne and Saracens Head are just a short drive away and great for a post-walk meal.
• Top Tip: To make it a full day out, you could combine this with a trip to Cedar Farm or Windmill Farm. For Coffee or drinks try Burscough Wharf.