Our story truly began when Brockholes officially opened to the public at Easter 2011. The iconic floating Visitor Village immediately captured national attention, becoming the UK's first floating visitor centre and creating a unique gateway into nature. 

Perhaps our greatest achievement has been turning an industrial landscape into over 250 acres of thriving wetlands, woodlands, meadows and lakes. What was once a quarry has become one of Lancashire's most important wildlife sites. 

In 2012, Brockholes received three Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) awards, including the North West Building of the Year award. These honours recognised the innovative and sustainable design of our floating Visitor Village. 

Thousands of reeds were planted by volunteers, wetlands were created, woodlands established and wildflower meadows sown. These carefully managed habitats now support an incredible variety of wildlife throughout the seasons.

Over the years, Brockholes has become home - or an important stopover - for species including ospreys, otters, avocets, curlews, lapwings, hobbies, reed buntings and even the rare belted kingfisher. Every new sighting reflects the success of habitat restoration. 

The arrival of our longhorn cattle in 2011 transformed the way we manage our grasslands. Their natural grazing helps create a rich variety of habitats while becoming a favourite sight for visitors. 

In 2017, Brockholes celebrated welcoming its one millionth visitor, an incredible milestone achieved just six years after opening. It demonstrated how wildlife and people can come together to create something truly special. 

Our spectacular wildlife has featured on BBC news, ITV news, Sky news, countryfile and many more, with everything from boxing hares to migrating birds helping showcase Brockholes to audiences across the UK. 

In October 2017, Prince Harry visited Brockholes to see first-hand how nature can improve health and wellbeing. His visit highlighted the importance of green spaces for supporting both wildlife and local communities. 

Alongside conservation success, Brockholes has earned recognition for hospitality, weddings and visitor experience, proving that a thriving nature reserve can also provide outstanding facilities for everyone. 

Hundreds of volunteers have contributed thousands of hours planting reeds, maintaining habitats, monitoring wildlife, welcoming visitors and supporting events. Their dedication remains at the heart of Brockholes' success. 

From guided walks and school visits to family discovery trails and outdoor theatre, Brockholes has introduced countless people to the natural world, inspiring future generations to care for wildlife. 

Nature has always been more than scenery. Through wellbeing activities, mindful walks, volunteering opportunities and accessible green spaces, Brockholes has helped improve physical and mental wellbeing for thousands of visitors. 

Even after 15 years, Brockholes continues to evolve. Recent habitat enhancement projects are restoring reedbeds, improving water management and recreating ideal breeding conditions for wading birds, ensuring the reserve continues to grow richer in wildlife. 

The greatest achievement of all is proving that nature recovery is possible. Brockholes has become a national example of how damaged landscapes can be restored into vibrant ecosystems that benefit wildlife, education, recreation and local communities alike. 

The first 15 years have been filled with remarkable achievements, but Brockholes' story is far from over. 

As habitats mature, new conservation projects begin and more people discover the beauty of the reserve, the future looks brighter than ever. Every visitor, volunteer, supporter and member has played a part in this incredible journey. 

Together, we've transformed a quarry into a thriving wildlife haven. 

Here's to the next 15 years of protecting nature, inspiring people and creating unforgettable moments at Brockholes Nature Reserve. 

Learn more about the reserve