Sphagnum pool
Great Manchester Wetlands Partnership
The Great Manchester Wetlands is a unique and diverse landscape of water, fen, wet grassland, wet woodland and lowland raised bog.
The Great Manchester Wetlands (GM Wetlands) is a 185-square mile Nature Improvement Area. We focus on the wetland areas of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh, the Mosslands of Wigan, Salford and Warrington and the Mersey Wetlands corridor including Rixton and Woolston Eyes in Warrington. Our area extends south-eastwards beyond the Manchester Ship Canal encompassing parts of Trafford, including the peatlands of Carrington Moss, and northwards to include a substantial corridor which is the watershed area between the Mersey and the River Douglas catchments, including parts of Bolton.
GM Wetlands partners work on projects that are restoring landscapes for habitats, species, communities and wider societal benefit. We aim to create a Nature Recovery Network of linked up wildlife-rich spaces, which help species to move, connect up and expand, across the GM Wetlands area.
Creating a living landscape between Greater Manchester and Merseyside
The partnership was formed in 2011, involving around 20 local authorities, statutory bodies, businesses, academic institutions, environmental charities and community groups. It is creating a nature recovery network between the urban areas of Greater Manchester and Merseyside, restoring habitats, creating new spaces for wildlife, reintroducing lost species and engaging local communities.
What do we do?
Our vision
By 2040 Great Manchester Wetlands will be an even richer, more resilient and inspirational landscape adapting to environmental change, with effective nature connectivity, continuing to deliver real benefits to local communities and the economy.
Our aims
We want GM Wetlands to become an exemplar of biodiversity restoration and enhancement that helps connect people to the nature on their doorsteps, encourages communities, land managers, policy makers and other stakeholders to get involved in making the landscape more resilient, deriving long term societal and economic benefit, and that helps species to survive and thrive in the face of pressures.
Click here to download a report that outlines what we want to achieve through the Great Manchester Wetlands partnership, what has been achieved so far, how we will do it and the partners who are working to achieve this. You can also view our Terms of Reference.
Our objectives
- Improve connectivity for species across the Great Manchester Wetlands landscape by creating and enhancing a nature recovery network that helps wildlife adapt to future pressures.
- Make lasting improvements to characteristic and nationally rare wildlife by restoring key sites and priority habitats in the Great Manchester Wetlands.
- Optimise the natural capital of the landscape’s habitats and realise the wider benefits they provide such as carbon storage, flood risk reduction and improved water and air quality.
- Continue to build and deliver a shared vision for nature recovery in the wider landscape with key partners, organisations and local people.
- Enhance community health, wellbeing, learning and skills through improved connection with, and access to, nature and creative engagement with the landscape and its heritage.
30 ways to deliver nature recovery in the Great Manchester Wetlands
Our projects
Our projects are restoring an essential network of wetland and other habitats, which will enhance biodiversity and species connectivity and greatly improve the health, wellbeing and recreational opportunities of the people living within and around the area. Below are current and previous projects delivered or delivering across the Great Manchester Wetlands Partnership.
Explore the Great Manchester Wetlands
Key
Point of Interest
Find out more about the sites in the Great Manchester Wetlands map
Amberswood
Roland Howard, Amberswood March 2023
Amberwood is the most north easterly of the clusters of sites that are part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is a 160-hectare wetland mosaic consisting of a lake and a series of smaller ponds and lowland raised bog, linked by ditches and streams and interspersed with species-rich grassland and woodland.
It formed after open cast coal mining and wildlife highlights include the elusive water vole, which takes advantage of the ditch network. It is a great stronghold for amphibians with frogs, toads, and common newts, and new ponds have been created to enable great crested newts to thrive. Willow tits live in the maturing scrubby areas, and the reedbeds and meadows are host to a huge variety of birds and invertebrates, including colourful dragonflies.
There are approximately 6 km of footpaths, providing walks of all lengths and links to other sites through the Jubilee Way and the Whelley Loop Line. There is an augmented reality trail through the woodland. The site is used for dog walking, cycling and horse riding. The site is owned by Wigan Council, supported by Lancashire Wildlife Trust and day-to-day managed by the Groundwork Trust.
Parking:
- North Access via Wigan Road Hindley: small car park opposite Le Cava Restaurant, 174 Wigan Rd, Hindley, Wigan WN2 3BU (6 parking spaces)
- Low Hall Car Park including south Access to Amberswood: Liverpool Road (A58), opposite Crompton Street, Platt Bridge, Wigan WN2 3UF
Suggested Trail:
Amberswood Lake and Woodland Adventure Trail
The trail starts near the entrance to the reserve and takes you in a loop around the lake. Dotted along the path are a series of posts, each with its own individual animal. Follow the path all the way round the lake, making sure to stop at each post to discover something new! As you complete the trail, soak in the scenery as you pass the lake, admire the magnificent totem pole that stands high above the ground and cross over the boardwalk to discover what on the other side.
Length: 2.2 km/ 1.4 miles
British Cycling Amberswood Lake and Woodland Adventure Trail map
Bickershaw Country Park
Bickershaw Country Park
Bickershaw Country Park is one of the clusters of sites that is part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve, located between Bickershaw village and Westleigh on the former Bickershaw Colliery. It is a 247-hectare haven for wildlife, comprising of extensive grasslands, woodlands, and scrubland.
Boasting 8 km of surfaced footpaths, with an additional 7 km of unsurfaced paths, it has a number of large water bodies including “slow the flow” meandering wetland areas devoted to natural flood alleviation to local properties.
Wildlife highlights include willow tits, kingfisher, heron and jack snipe. Roe deer can be seen hiding in the woodlands, and buzzard, kestrel and sparrow hawk can often be observed hunting over the grasslands for small mammals like field voles.
Activities on site include walking, cycling and horse riding. Dogs are welcome so long as they are kept under control. The large waterbodies are fished by the Leigh District Anglers. The country park is owned by Wigan Council and managed by Lancashire Wildlife Trust with an active facebook community.
Parking:
Bickershaw Country Park Car Park, 121 Ena Cres, Leigh WN7 5ET
Suggested Trails:
Bumble Bees Family Friendly Cycling Trail at Bickershaw Country Park
This trail starts at the car park. Grab your bike and head towards your right, following the path as it loops around the lake, making sure that you stop at each post to discover more. As you ride along, notice the beauty of the nature that surrounds you, its breath-taking! See the ducks and coots gliding across the flash whilst listening to the birds and the trees. This trail is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with the whole family!
Length: 5.5 km/ 3.4 miles
British Cycling Bumble Bees Family Friendly Cycling Trail at Bickershaw Country Park map
The Family Figure of Eight Walk at Bickershaw Country Park
Walk around this amazing nature reserve and discover all the beautiful wildlife it has to offer! See wildlife from ducks and coots to the wondrous willow tit and kingfishers.
Length: 5 km
The Family Figure of Eight Walk at Bickershaw Country Park map
Birchwood Forest Park
Suggested Trail:
Birchwood Forest Park Loop
Starting at the car park, follow the path into the forest. The trail will take you in a loop around the site. Be sure to stop at each post as you go and discover what wildlife lives in the forest! Looking for a refreshment after your amazing bike ride? Pop into the onsite café and enjoy!
Parking: Birchwood Forest Park Car Park
Length: 1.0 km/ 0.6 miles
British Cycling Birchwood Forest Park Loop map
Gorse Covert Mounds
Gorse Covert Mounds
This suburban site is a delightful mosaic of mixed woodland, meadows, peat bog and ponds. It supports an amazing variety of plants and wildlife. Its network of accessible paths allows you to enjoy woodland and waterside walks, and some stunning views from Pestfurlong Hill. On a clear day you can see as far as the West Pennine Moors.
Gorse Covert Mounds is also home to Pestfurlong Moss, a remnant of the Manchester Mosses that once covered the whole area. This ecologically important habitat is a Lowland Raised Peat Bog, which is home to a variety of sphagnum mosses, plants such as cranberry and grasses such as cotton grass.
Gorse Covert Mounds is home to several species of dragonfly and damselfly as well as hosting a rich diversity of bird and mammal life. Highlights include the rare willow tit, brambling, redwing and redpoll.
The restoration of Pestfurlong Moss has involved the installation of several bunds and ditch blocks to allow the peat bog to become waterlogged and return to its optimum state. The wet conditions allow the growth of sphagnum mosses and the creation of peat, which is crucial to the storage of carbon.
Gorse Covert Mounds can be accessed 24 hours a day. The number 25 Bus runs along Gorse Covert Road, with a bus stop close to the main entrance. The nearest amenities are at Birchwood Shopping Centre, with several cafes, shops and public toilets.
Parking:
Car Park on Gorse Covert Road, Birchwood, Warrington WA3 6SU
Suggested trails:
The Family Trail at Pestfurlong Moss
Pestfurlong Moss is a very important site as it contains an area of lowland raised bog which throughout the project has been restored. It truly is a hidden gem! From the importance of restoring this bog back to its former glory, to the abundance of wildlife that thrives here, such as dragonflies, it is incredible!
The family trail will take you across this incredible site and give you chance to see the incredible bog, wildlife and nature for yourself! So what are you waiting for grab your wellies and head on over to Pestfurlong Moss!
Length: 2 km
Pestfurlong Moss map
Carbon Trail (Irlam - Warrington)
The Carbon Trail is a route that has been created across the entire Carbon Landscape. Linking the wetlands of Wigan and Leigh to the Peatlands of Salford and Chat Moss, the trail leads you through a variety of landscapes, waterways, conservation area, nature reserves and heritage sites. The trail has been separated into three manageable sections, that start and end with links to public transport.
This part of the route highlights the raised bogs in Warrington. It will take you through Glazebrook, to Pestfurlong Hill, Gorse Covert Mounds and Birchwood Forest Park. The second part of this section shows you the nature hidden in urban places, as it takes you through Birchwood Train Station towards Woolston Park and along the New Cut Heritage Trail, Finally, you will pass along the way as you head into Warrington Bank Quay.
Length: 12.8 miles
Transport: Warrington Bank Quay
Carbon Trail map
Holcroft Moss (access by permit only)
Holcroft Moss
Holcroft Moss is a part of Risley, Holcroft and Chat Moss National Nature Reserve (NNR), internationally important Manchester Mosses designated lowland raised bog and is thought to be the only known example in the immediate area that has never been cut for peat.
Unfortunately, the M62 and commercial peat extraction in the vicinity has lowered the water table, and this has subsequently damaged the hydrology of Holcroft Moss. The Cheshire Wildlife Trust have created a perimeter barrier through the use of piling. Conservation grazing by Hebridean sheep helps control shrub and purple moor grass.
Notable species include common lizard, cross-leaved heath, cranberry, cotton grass and six species of sphagnum moss. During the summertime the bog is a favoured breeding and feeding site of yellowhammer – a UK BAP species.
Holcroft Moss is managed by Cheshire Wildlife Trust. Access by permission only.
Lightshaw Meadows
Lightshaw Meadows is a central site in the clusters of sites that is part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve (NNR). Lightshaw Meadows is an area of open countryside and a beautiful mosaic of wetlands located in the heart of Abram. The land has been created over many years from mining subsidence.
Lightshaw Meadows covers an area of 18 hectares, 13 hectares of which has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Wildlife highlights include yellow wagtail, lapwing, willow tit and other creatures such as bats, water voles and invertebrates with thanks to the conservation grazing of rare breed cattle.
The site is managed by Lancashire Wildlife Trust, City of Trees and Wigan Flashes Conservation and Community Group.
Little Woolden and Cadishead Mosses
Cottongrass on Little Woolden Moss by Dave Steel
Little Woolden and Cadishead Mosses are part of Risley, Holcroft and Chat Moss National Nature Reserve (NNR) which showcases a “restoration reversal” of peat extraction. This has involved rewetting the bog and introducing cotton grasses, sphagnums and heathers to the outlying areas. The late May to July cotton grass specular is something to behold. Nowadays, brown hares are regularly running across the vista with hobbies flying overhead. Curlews successfully rear their young whilst dragonflies dart over the wetlands. There is also a chance to view archaeology with the millennia old bog oaks.
Video: Virtual Tour of Little Woolden Moss
Suggested Trails:
Family friendly trail at Little Woolden Moss
This family friendly trail is the perfect mix of getting outdoor and learning all about why bogs are so special through the amazing interpretation boards dotted around.
Walk around this incredible site, take in the beauty and see if you can spot any of the wonderful wildlife that call Little Woolden Moss their home. Brown Hares are regularly seen, with Hobbies chasing Common Darter and Black Darter dragonflies all over this breath-taking mossland. A home for many bird species, Little Woolden Moss is also a fantastic place to see common lizards and the rare bog bush cricket in the summer months. Not to mention the incredible Cotton Grass that grows here every year!
Please take note that the ground is boggy, so please ensure you stay on the footpaths provided.
Length: 2 km
Little Woolden Moss trail map
Carbon Trail (Leigh to Irlam)
The Carbon Trail is a route that has been created accross the entire Carbon Landscape. Linking the wetlands of Wigan and Leigh to the Peatlands of Salford and Chat Moss, the trail leads you through a variety of lanscapes, waterways, conservation area, nature reserves and heritage sites. The trail has been separated into three manageable sections, that start and end with links to public transport.
Starting at Leigh Bus Station, this part of the trail takes you along the Bridgewater Canal. Leaving the canal just after the passing under the East Lancashire Road, the trail then takes you on a series of small roads and footpaths towards Bents Garden Centre, where you can stop for refreshements. The trail skirts past Windy Bank Wood, then travels along to Glazebrook. This route will then take you around the edge of Little Woolden Moss, then down New Moss Road before ending at Irlam Train Station.
Length: 10.4 miles
Transport: Leigh Bus Station, Irlam Train Station.
Facilities: Leigh Bus Station, Irlam Train Station, Bents Garden Centre
Carbon Trail map
The route of GM Ringway (Leigh to Irlam)
The GM Ringway is Greater Manchester’s walking trail, taking in the green spaces, countryside, and heritage across all ten boroughs. This part of the trail passes through Cadishead and Little Woolden Moss, a peaceful area formerly used for peat extraction that has been carefully restored and is now rich in wildlife.
Length: 10.3 miles / 16.6 km
Please visit The GM Ringway for more information.
Low Hall
Low Hall
Low Hall is a well-loved smaller site that is part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is particularly well served with art trails, sculptures and benches. Known locally as “Sammy’s Flood”, it comprises of lots of hidden surprises including open water, swamp, scrub and woodland.
Wildlife highlights include the rare white letter hairstreak butterfly (which specialises on elm trees) and the grizzled skipper, which is more typical of a southern chalklands than a northern urban nature reserve. You can also see kingfisher, water rail, dragonflies and damselflies. Other rarities include the secretive water vole and willow tits.
Low Hall is the result of subsidence of historic mineshafts and coal workings. The reserve is owned and managed by Wigan Council. It has an active Friends Group.
Parking:
Low Hall Car Park, Platt Bridge, Wigan WN2 3UD
Suggested Trails:
Family Loop at Low Hall
The Low Hall Family Loop will take you around this wonderful sight and show you all the wondrous wildlife and nature that this site has to offer.
When you arrive at the Low Hall car park head through the gate and walk straight ahead towards the wonderful array of stone known to locals as stone henge! From here continue on ahead where you will be stopped in your tracks by the totem pole towering over you and marking the crossover of the paths. Continue on the path and into the woods where you will see the amazing woodland, ponds and all the wildlife that comes alive here. Follow the path around, exploring as you go, until you make it back to the totem pole. We recommend that you walk around the site in an anti-clockwise direction to get the best experience from the site!
For more information about the site and to download the trail please visit the Facebook page of Friends of Low Hall or the Wigan Council website.
Length: 1.5 km
Family Loop at Low Hall map
Walk from Low Hall to Victoria Fields
The walk takes you from Low Hall car park into the woodlands of Victoria Fields. Victoria Fields is a green space on the site of a former colliery. The stony path that loops through the site takes you through a mixture of predominantly birch woodland mixed with aspen, alder, hawthorn, larch and small oaks. It also has a rich variety of flora, lichens and mosses. The site provides a rich habitat for many species of wildlife. Visitors may see a Great Spotted Woodpecker, a Common Buzzard, a Fox, or even a Roe Deer.
This trail loops back out of Victoria Fields, where you will re-join the path that leads you back towards Low Hall Nature Reserve. Re-join the path where you left, taking a right turn, and continue to follow the lake in an anti-clockwise direction. Eventually, you will arrive back at the car park where you started.
Length: 4.8 km/ 3 miles
Low Hall and Victoria Fields map
New Moss Wood
New Moss Wood
A metal art gateway welcomes you and was designed by the children of Cadishead Primary school. New Moss Woods is a habitat for a vast variety of wildlife, which visitors are able to see on walks. Previously a market garden farm, it covers 30.47 hectares, filled with trees, grassland, seasonally wet ditches and even small areas of peat land.
Within walking distance of Irlam Train Station, Station Café, and heritage museum, New Moss Wood began life as a bog, was drained, became a place for the Victorian night soil of Manchester, a post-war vegetable farm, a woodland planted in 1998/99 and in 2020 had a rewetting programme with a mini moss created.
New Moss Wood has a good network of mainly grassy paths connecting the open grassland to the young woodland. Due to the soft and wet ground conditions in New Moss Wood, horse riding and cycling are not permitted within the wood.
The site is owned by the Woodland Trust and supported by the local Hamilton Davies Trust.
Parking:
New Moss Wood, Moss Road, Cadishead, Salford M44 5JT.
Suggested Trails:
Chat Moss Bridleway- New Moss Wood to Little Woolden Moss
This family friendly trail is short, making it perfect for families with small children who have just learned to ride their bikes! Before you set of on the trail be sure to let any children explore the play area at New Moss Wood, then grab your bikes and let’s go!
Starting at New Moss Wood exit the car park to your left and continue down the road. On your left you will be able to see the wonderful mini moss in all its glory through the trees! Continue along this road making sure to stop at each post where you will have the opportunity to see the wildlife of the area come alive right in front of you! When you come to a gate carry on straight ahead all the way to the incredible and breath-taking site that is Little Woolden Moss!
Length: 1.8 km/ 1.1 miles
British Cycling Chat Moss Bridleway- New Moss Wood to Little Woolden Moss map
Family Loop at New Moss Wood
Walk through the woodland of this incredible site and take note of the wondrous nature that surrounds you. This site is abundant in tree and wildlife; can you spot any of your favourite animals? Stop and admire the wonderful bog created by re-wetting and restoring this land, it is a marvellous sight to see!
Once you have completed the loop be sure to let your children explore the playground! So much fun! There is also a location based audio trail 'Ghost Wolf Poetry Trail', that tells the story of restoration.
Length: 2 km
Family Loop at New Moss Wood map
Salford Heritage Timewalk
The Salford Heritage Timewalk takes you in a loop from Irlam Train Station through some incredible sites such as New Moss Wood and Little Woolden Moss. Both of these incredible sites are situated on the same peat mass and were once part of Chat Moss – which was also connected to Astley Moss! Make sure to take your time and wonder round both these sites and see their incredible beauty.
The trail is a loop and can be started at any point, we recommend starting at Irlam Train Station. The entire route should take approx. 2 hours to complete. The route has roads with potholes and uneven paths through farmland, so please be advised that it is not suitable for wheelchairs.
Parking: Irlam Train Station, M44 5AB and at New Moss Wood, M44 5JT
Facilities: Refreshments and toilet facilities are available at the station café located at Irlam train station.
For anyone wanting to see the route being walked before setting of yourself, please watch this video. You might also be inspired by Maxwell's Davies "Chat Moss" by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra.
Download the Salford Heritage Timewalk map
Length: 6.5 km / 4 miles
Salford Heritage Timewalk map
Mossland Poetry Trail
Take a two-hour walk from 21st century Irlam to the ancient boglands of Chat Moss, one of the UK’s most unique and dramatic habitats.
Let poet Clare Shaw guide you through 21 points of interest featuring natural wonders, hidden histories, magical gateways and interactive writing exercises.
The trail is funded by the Carbon Landscape Partnership, NHLF. It is supported by LWT and Hamilton Davies Trust.
Mossland Poetry Trail map
The trail was developed and funded by Carbon Landscape Partnership and Lancashire Wildlife Trust. Poetry by award winning poet Lorna Smithers
Paddington Meadows
Paddington Meadows
One of the few remaining water meadows, Paddington Meadows also contains some of the oldest examples of hawthorn hedge boundaries in Cheshire. Paddington Meadows is part of the New Cut Trail and provides a clear stepping stone to the internationally important Woolston Eyes which is directly across the River Mersey. The fields were gifted to Warrington Council in 1995 on the condition that they were managed as a nature reserve.
Wildlife is abundant with lapwings, skylark, meadow pipit, cettis warbler, kestrel, and mammals such as fox, and even the occasional otter and seal are spotted in the River Mersey. As well as the butterflies, moths and other insects flitting around the mosaic of beautiful native wildflowers on the different meadows.
Enjoy the quiet walks around the footpaths throughout the site, ideal for dog walking, families and perhaps stop for a picnic on one of the historic grassland meadows.
The site has an active Friends group New Cut Heritage and Ecology Trail Group with monthly birding group and regular heritage events.
The site has no facilities, however it is close to local services and shops. Located just off the A57, Paddington Meadows is accessible by the Number 3 bus which stops at the top of Larkfield Avenue on Manchester Road. Entrance is by Larkfield Avenue, Warrington WA1 3NE
Opening times: Paddington Meadows can be accessed 24 hours a day.
Suggested Trails:
Family Walk at Paddington Meadows
Explore the beautiful variety of wildlife, from birds such as Lapwings, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Cetti’s Warbler, Kestrel, Sparrow Hawk, and Goldeneye Ducks to mammals such as Badger, Fox and even the occasional Seal is spotted in the River Mersey. As well as the butterflies, moths and other insects flitting around the mosaic of beautiful native wildflowers on the different meadows.
Enjoy the quiet walks around the footpaths throughout the site, ideal for dog walking families and perhaps stop for a picnic on one of the historic grassland meadows.
Length: 2 km
Family Walk at Paddington Meadows map
Ship Canal to New Cut - Family Friendly
Grab your bike and journey along this trail from the Ship Canal, along the Black Bear Canal, to Kings Way Bridge, then to Paddington Bank, New Cut and finishing in Woolston Park South! So many areas to explore and discover what kind of wildlife inhabits these vast areas of nature. Be sure to stop at each post and watch as your favourite animals come to life right in front of your eyes!
Parking: Victoria Park
Length: 4 km/ 2.5 miles
British Cycling Ship Canal to New Cut - Family Friendly map
A further visit to Westy Point (drop down)
A further walk along the Mersey River to Westy Point, which is located near Paddington Meadows.
For more information about Westy Point, visit the Friends of Westy Park's website.
Length: 2 km
Westy Point map
Pennington Flash
Picture by Tony Da Silva
Pennington Flash is the most southerly of the clusters of sites that is part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve (NNR). Pennington Flash is an iconic wildlife site for the people of Leigh, with 200 hectares of open water surrounded by fen, reedbed, scrub and woodland. Like much of Wigan and Leigh the reserve was formed as a result of coal mining subsidence.
Over 230 species of birds have been recorded including with black-faced bunting, nightingale, cattle egret, whiskered tern and Leach’s petral. Leigh Ornithological Society also support local children to engage with the site with their “birder introduction” species including willow tit, kestrel, mute swan, great crested grebe, canada goose, blackbird, mallard, chaffinch, grey heron and lapwing. In addition to a variety of fascinating invertebrates including sixteen species of dragonfly and twenty species of butterfly.
The site is owned by Wigan Council and managed by the BeWell programme. The site has an active Friends group “Pennington Flash Volunteers”, which is part of Leigh Ornithological Society.
There is an extensive car park, seven bird hides, a small children’s play area, a cafe and picnic benches. The toilets are open during daylight hours. Some of the paths allow horse riding and cycling. Sailing and windsurfing activities are run by Leigh and Lowton Sailing Club.
Parking:
Pennington Flash Car Park, Leigh WN7 3U (with car park charge)
Suggest Trails:
Pennington Flash to Wigan Flashes along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal
Starting at the monolith on the canal at Pennington Flash, this trail will take you on a wonderful bike ride all the way down the canal to Wigan Flashes. As you go along the path, be sure to stop at each of the posts to discover more about the wildlife that lives along the canal, maybe even see some for yourself! From ducks and swans to the infamous Bittern, there is so much that you and your family can discover on this trail.
To get to the canal, go past the visitor centre and follow the lake up to the bird hide. Follow this path to the junction, then turn left and continue along this until the end. This will bring you onto the canal.
Length: 9.3 km / 5.8 miles
British Cycling Pennington Flash to Wigan Flashes along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal map
Pennington Flash Hide Loop
The Pennington Flash Hide Loop is the perfect family friendly walk! Walk past the lake, stopping to see the wonderful view, how many mallards can you spot? Then, wander through the woodland and see if you can spot any of the magnificent birds that live at Pennington Flash. This loop is a great way to see all that Pennington flash has to offer!
Length: 2 km
Pennington Flash Hide Loop map
Carbon Trail (Wigan - Leigh)
The Carbon Trail is a route that has been created across the entire Carbon Landscape. Linking the wetlands of Wigan and Leigh to the Peatlands of Salford and Chat Moss, the trail leads you through a variety of landscapes, waterways, conservation area, nature reserves and heritage sites. The trail has been separated into three manageable sections, that start and end with links to public transport.
Starting at Wigan Town Centre, this trail takes you along the Leeds Liverpool Canal highlighting how our industrial past has shaped the landscape. Connecting the two sites created by mining subsidence, the trail takes you past the National Nature Reserves of Wigan Flashes and Pennington Flash, before ending at Leigh Bus Station.
Length: 8.6 miles
Transport: Wigan Train Stations, Leigh Bus Station
Facilities: Wigan Train Stations, Leigh Bus Station
Carbon Trail map
Walk to Pennington Wharf, Bickershaw, Pennington Flash, Canal
Start at the Slag Lane Car Park for Pennington Flash. Continue along Plank Lane and then Common Lane, you will reach Bickershaw Country Park. Walk around Fir Tree Flash head back down Common Lane. At the end of the lane take the footpath on the right, crossing over the number 9 bridge and then turning right. Follow the canal path back to Pennington Wharf car park.
This walk can also be done starting at Enda Road car park.
Length: 6.4 km/ 4 miles
Pennington Wharf, Bickershaw, Pennington Flash, Canal map
Pennington Flash to Bickershaw
Starting at the car park at Pennington Flash, the trail will take you into Bickershaw Country Park. Passing Fir Tree Flash, you will head towards the Enda Road car park at Bickershaw. Near Diggle Flash, there is the option to end your walk, with parking available on Smith’s Lane.
In terms of public transport, from Leigh Bus Station there is a route that will take you to the St Helens Road entrance. Alternatively, you can walk to Pennington Flash from Leigh town centre via the footpath behind Leigh Sports Village.
There are also bus routes that will take you to the Bickershaw Lane entrance to Bickershaw Country Park, and to the Enda Road entrance off Wigan Road.
Length: 9.5 km
Pennington Flash to Bickershaw map
Risley Moss
Risley Moss
Risley Moss has a varied industrial history, having been extracted for peat and used as an ammunition factory. It boasts a visitor centre with toilets, disability access, several trails, including the Boggart Sculpture Trail and the celebrated boardwalk over the mini-moss.
This is a part of Risley, Holcroft and Chat Moss National Nature Reserve (NNR), and is perfect for spotting wildlife. Reptiles, dragonflies and a variety of birds love it here. This site is home to rare plants like the carnivorous sundew, sphagnum mosses and bog cranberries.
This nature reserve boasts a visitor centre with classroom space for hire, toilets including a separate disabled toilet and baby changing facilities. Ramped entrances make this site perfect for pushchair or wheelchair users and an onsite car park makes it perfect for a day out. Dogs allowed but please keep on leads to help local wildlife.
The reserve is owned by Warrington Council, has a welcoming ranger service and has an active Friends Group. To discover the family-friendly and wheelchair accessible "Risley Moss Nature Trail" visit. June to September is a good time to see the dragonflies and keep your eye out for the family friendly “Green Safari” day.
Contact Warrington Ranger Service at email: risleymossrangers@warrington.gov.uk or telephone: 01925 824339.
Parking:
Car Park next to Risley Moss Visitor Centre, Birchwood, Ordnance Avenue, Warrington, Cheshire, WA3 6QX
Suggested Trails:
Boggart Trail at Risley Moss
Have you ever seen a Boggart? No? then this trail is for you! Visit the wonderful Risley Moss. The boggart’s and their friends are hiding in the woods waiting to be found be you and your family!
Explore the Boggart trail by carefully navigating your way through the wonderful woodland of Risley Moss! Can you find them all? You can walk along the boardwalk and see the moss in all its glory or simply explore the woodland, the boggarts are all around!
Length: 1.5 km
Boggart Trail at Risley Moss map
Risley Moss to Rixton Walk via Pestfurlong Moss
This is a linear route. You can start at Risley or at Rixton Claypitts. Starting at Risley Moss. This trail begins at the visitors centre at Risley Moss. Here, you have the option to explore Risley Moss before setting off to Rixton Claypitts.
Rixton Claypits, as the name suggests, was used for clay extraction from the 1920’s to 1965, after which the site was left to return to nature. The site is now a SSSI for its wildflower meadow and boasts a large breeding population of Great Crested Newts. This nature reserve has a visitor centre with classroom space for hire and toilets. The reserve is owned by Warrington Council and has a Ranger Service present.
Length: 8.2 km/ 10 miles
Risley Moss to Rixton Walk via Pestfurlong Moss map
Three Sisters Nature Reserve
Three Sisters Nature Reserve
Three sisters provide a tranquil environment for visitors where walks are welcome and bike rides are enjoyable. This beautiful place also has a bird feeding station to allow a closer view of the magnificent wildlife. The site is the former Garswood Hall Collieries and the Three Sisters were the spoil heaps.
Three Sisters Access for all comprises 3 km wheelchair accessible paths co-produced with local groups with additional needs.
The site is owned by Wigan Council and has an active Friends of Three Sisters, and the Hamlet social enterprise coffee shop operates in term time.
The site is open every day of the year during daylight hours. The wheelchair-accessible toilet requires a radar key and is the only toilet available.
Parking:
Three Sisters Car Parks, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-in-Makerfield WN4 8DD
Suggested Trails:
Three Sisters Enchanted Tree Trail
The Three Sisters Enchanted Tree Trail is the perfect family friendly trail! Journey throughout the Three Sisters and discover the incredible art that has been carved into the tree!
Based on the amazing folklore stories written by the pupils from St. Peters Primary School in Bryn, these 8 amazing carving where created by the amazing chainsaw artist, Lucinda Brito. For all our fellow nature lovers please do not worry the chainsaw art does not harm the trees, it’s just like having a tattoo!
The stories tell the tales of some magical creatures from dragons and wolves to Celtic Warriors and many more! Read the stories in the booklet below as you walk the trail and come across the characters as they come alive on the tree trunks of the Three Sisters!
Length: 1.5 km
Three Sisters Enchanted Tree map
Three Sisters to Wigan Flashes Heritage Loop
The Three Sisters to Wigan Flashes heritage loop is a wonderful way to explore the local nature of Wigan. Whether you're interested in walking, wildlife or history, this trail has it all! Complete this heritage loop and be amazed at what you discover along the way.
For anyone wanting to view the route, please watch the video where The Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s, Adam Berry, will take you along this incredible route!
Length: 13.2 km/ 7 miles
Parking: Free parking is available at the Three Sisters car parks
Facilities: Hamlet Café and toilets are available at the Three Sisters (Please note that these are not always open).
Download the Three Sisters - Wigan Flashes Heritage Loop leaflet
Three Sisters to Wigan Flashes Heritage Loop map
Whitehead Hall Meadows
Whitehead Hall Meadows
Whitehead Hall Meadows boasts 5.58 hectares of wetland meadows, outlying wooded areas and a central pond near to the iconic Lancashire Mining Museum.
Whitehead Hall Meadows was part of Astley Colliery and was used as a recreation area for the villagers, however during World War Two it accommodated the colliery spoil. Since then, wetland, woodlands and grasslands have developed to form valuable wildlife habitats. Orchids thrive here including northern marsh, southern marsh, leopard spotted southern marsh, common spotted orchid and hybrids of these. The nationally rare willow tit can also be found in the trees and shrubs in the area.
A number of benches and paths welcome visitors, and there is the ability to access the Bridgewater Canal. The site is managed by the charity Whitehead Hall Millennium Green Trust.
Parking:
Entrance from Lower Green Lane, Astley, Manchester M29 7JE
Suggested Trails:
Carbon Trail (RHS Bridgewater Extension)
The Carbon Trail is a route that has been created accross the entire Carbon Landscape. Linking the wetlands of Wigan and Leigh to the Peatlands of Salford and Chat Moss, the trail leads you through a variety of lanscapes, waterways, conservation area, nature reserves and heritage sites. The trail has been separated into three manageable sections, that start and end with links to public transport.
Continuing along the Bridgewater Canal from Pennington, you will pass by the meadows of Whitehead Hall and the Lancashire Mining Museum. Here, you have the opportunity to stop for refreshments
Length:1.9 miles
Transport: Leigh Bus Station and Leigh Road Bus Route (A572)
Facilities: The cafe at RHS Bridgewater
Carbon Trail map
Astley Colliery Loop
A short walk exploring the area around the Lancashire Mining Museum, finishing with a stroll through Whitehead Hall Meadow
Length: 5.7 km/ 3.6 miles
Astley Colliery Loop map
Boothstown Figure of eight on the Bridgewater Canal
Take a pick of your starting point - either the Lancashire Mining Museum, the Boothstown Marina or Worsley court house car park. Make the walk as long or as short as you want, just so long as you enjoy the sights along the canal.
Length: 13 km/ 8 miles
Boothstown Figure of eight on the Bridgewater Canal map
Wigan Flashes
Wigan Flashes - credit Lancashire Wildlife Trust
Wigan Flashes is the most north westerly of the clusters of sites that is part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve (NNR). It hosts 10km of paths and a chance to explore on the Leeds Liverpool Canal (Leigh Branch) running through the site.
Wigan Flashes boasts a mosaic of wetland habitats providing the perfect place for open water, reedbeds, wildflower meadows and woodland trails. Parts of Ince Moss has Site for Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) status. Reedbeds hide rare wildlife including the skulking water rail who squeals like a piglet, the beautifully camouflaged booming bittern and you can listen for the rather unexpected explosive call of the cettis warbler.
June is a great time to spot northern marsh orchids and bee orchids on the meadows close to Turners Flash. The jewel in the crown is the nationally rare, but locally abundant, willow tit with its preference for tumble down wet woodland. A herd of roe deer can often be spotted behind the trees.
Once there was Ince Moss Colliery, railways and Westwood power station with their legacy of spoil and ash mountains and deep mine collapse. The natural recolonisation and the restoration programme has enabled the Flashes to transform to a wildlife haven. Today Pearsons, Scotmans, Turners, Ochre Flash and Bryn Marsh prove unrecognisable from their industrial past.
There are cycle routes across the site and plenty of footpaths for walking, with circular routes and links to other sites in Wigan. Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control.
The site is part of Wigan Greenheart and owned by Wigan Council, managed by Lancashire Wildlife Trust and has an active Friends group: the Wigan Flashes Conservation and Community Group.
Additionally, Scotmans Flash hosts a Sailing Club. The sailing club based on Scotmans Flash offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, sailing, climbing, archery and windsurfing supported by Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles.
Parking:
Worsley Mesnes, Poolstock Lane (B5238), Wigan WN3 5EA/ Wellen Road near Hawkley Hall High School, Wellham Rd off Carr Lane, Wigan WN3 5PA (4 parking spaces)
Suggested Trails:
Family Walk at Wigan Flash Ochre
This family trail is the perfect route for any adventurer looking for an easy and scenic walk!
Starting at the Wigan Flashes entrance at Wellham Road, journey to your right and follow the tree lined path past the school, all the way down to Ochre Flash. Here you will find an abundance of wildlife and nature! Sit on the picnic benches and take in the breath-taking view of Ochre Flashes, maybe even have a picnic here!
Once you have finished here continue on the path, listening to the bird’s song in the trees as you journey along. At the top of the path, take a right and continue along until you come to the next turning.
Take another right and follow this path, which will loop you back around to the path that you started on and back lead you back to the entrance.
Length: 2 km
Wigan Flash Ochre map
Little Ducklings Cycling Trail at Wigan Flashes
Park at Wellham Road, then follow the path straight ahead towards the canal. The incredible nature and wildlife start before you even begin the trail! As you cross over the canal bridge, take a left and go through the gate, where you then take the first right on to the yellow brick road. This is where the fun starts!
Dotted along the path are a series of posts, each with its own individual animal native to the Carbon Landscape. Follow the path all the way until you reach the Carbon Landscape monolith, then turn right, where you will be guided down towards Turners flash. Follow the path around and don’t forget to stop at each of the posts! Don’t forget, as you complete the trail, take note of all the incredible wildlife that surrounds you, it’s incredible!
Length: 1 km/ 0.6 miles
British Cycling Little Ducklings Cycling Trail at Wigan Flashes map
The route of GM Ringway (Wigan - Leigh)
The GM Ringway is Greater Manchester’s walking trail, taking in the green spaces, countryside, and heritage across all ten boroughs. This stage connects Wigan and Leigh via England’s National Nature Reserve, the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh, an area formally designated in October 2022 for its natural beauty and significant ecological value.
Length: 10.1 miles / 16.3 km
Please visit The GM Ringway for more information.
Windy Bank
Suggested Trails:
Bents to Windy Bank Woods
Starting at Bents Garden Centre cross over the Glazebrook Canal and join up with the Glazebrook Timberland Trail. Follow this to the right and all the way down until you come to the amazing Windy Bank Woods! As you walk through these woods, make sure you take in all the beautiful nature that surrounds you. Listen to the birds’ songs high in the trees and maybe see if you can spot any!
Take your time to walk around these incredible woods with your family or even by yourself, before heading back towards Bents.
Feeling hungry? Or fancy a nice little shop after you walk? Then head on into Bents Garden Centre and see what they have to offer.
Length: 4.5 km
Parking: Free parking at Bents Garden Centre
Bents to Windy Bank Woods map
Windy Bank Woods to Lancashire Mining Museum Linear
This is a linear route and you can either start at Bents Garden Centre or at the Lancashire Mining Museum – there are places to stop for food and drinks at either end. The directions are written as though you walking from Bents Garden Centre.
Length: 9.6km/ 6 miles
Windy Bank Woods to Lancashire Mining Museum Linear map
Woolston Eyes (access by appointment only)
Woolston Eyes
The Woolston Eyes Conservation Group, a voluntary organisation formed in 1979, manages the rich and varied wildlife of the deposit grounds with the agreement of the Manchester Ship Canal Company, owners of the land.
The four beds at Woolston Deposit Grounds are designated as internationally important Special Area for Conservation (SAC) and are managed as a nature reserve. Parts of the site are still in use to accommodate dredging from the Manchester Ship Canal.
Woolston Eyes is home to a variety of wetland habitats, including wet woodland, reed beds, wildflower meadows and open water. It is home for a variety of birds with the black necked grebe being the jewel in the crown. The photography and species recorded of the website is worth looking through. Other highlights include marsh harrier, pochard, teal, gadwall, tufted ducks, pintails and ruddy ducks. All the wetland specialist species are there including dragonflies, butterflies, watervoles and willow tits.
Access to Bed 3 and 4 of Woolston Eyes is by permit only. To apply for a permit, please visit the website of the Woolston Eyes Conservation Group.
Suggested Trails:
Woolston Park to Latchford Locks via Woolston Eyes
Supported by Woolston Parish Council.
Download the Woolston Park to Latchford Locks via Woolston Eyes leaflet
Length: 11.3 km/ 7 miles
Woolston Park to Latchford Locks via Woolston Eyes map
Warrington Heritage Loop
The Warrington Heritage loop is a wonderful 4-mile trail! This pleasant walk gives you the chance to take in all the wonders of the New Cut Trail, Woolston Eyes, the River Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal all in one day. The trail starts and ends at the Woolston Neighbourhood Hub (WA1 4JT)
Facilities: Refreshments can be found at Café Ocho and the Pickering Arms
Parking: Free parking is available at the Woolston Neighbourhood Hub
For anyone wanting to view the route, please watch the video where The Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s, Adam Berry, will take you along this incredible route!
Download the Warrington Heritage Loop leaflet
Length: 6.5 km/ 4 miles
Warrington Heritage Loop map
Woolston Park
Woolston Park
Woolston Park is a large public park that provides an important green space for both people and wildlife within the community. It features a mix of wetlands, woodlands and grasslands. It supports habitats for amphibians and a variety of birds, making it a valued refuge for local wildlife alongside open recreational space. Walkers and nature lovers can enjoy woodland walks and open grassy areas, while families benefit from well-provided children’s play areas and picnic benches. The Park is owned by Warrington Council and has an active Friends Group.
Opening times: Woolston Park can be accessed 24 hours a day.
Parking: Woolston Park Car Park, Somerset Way, Woolston, Warrington WA1 4LN
Suggested Trails:
Woolston Park Family Friendly Cycling and Wildlife Rubbings Trail
Venture on down to Woolston Park and explore this incredible site! Woolston Park can be explored by foot or by bike and is a place that the whole family can enjoy!
Looking for a fun activity to complete on your family day out? Why not complete the wildlife rubbings trail! Walk around and find all the posts each with a different animal on them. For more information, see the attached leaflet below.
Length: 2 km/1.2 miles
Woolston Park Family Friendly Cycling and Wildlife Rubbings Trail map
Woolston Park to Risley Moss
Supported by Woolston Parish Council.
Download the Woolston Park to Risley Moss walk leaflet
Length: 9.2 km/ 5.6 miles
Woolston Park to Risley Moss map
Woolston Park to Swithen Hill Wood Linear
Supported by Woolston Parish Council.
Download the Woolston Park to Swithen Hill Wood Linear leaflet
Length: 10.6 km/ 6.6 miles
Woolston Park to Swithen Hill Wood Linear map
Woolston Park to Paddington Meadows
Supported by Woolston Parish Council.
Download the Woolston Park to Paddington Meadows leaflet
Length: 6 km/ 3.7 miles
Woolston Park to Paddington Meadows map
Viridor Woods
Viridor Woods
Viridor Woods are part of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is a wonderful place to visit. It has some great walks and sculptures to explore. Also, it’s not too far away from Three Sisters Recreation Area. It’s a great day out for all the family!
Parking:
Viridor Woods public car park, Bamfurlong, Abram, Wigan WN4 8TW
Suggested Trails:
Jubilee Legacy Walks
To celebrate the Queen's Jubilee Celebrations of 2012, a series of 15 Legacy Walks were developed ranging from 1 to 9 miles. Please visit Wigan Council for more information.
Walk from Three Sisters to Viridor Woods
Check out the route on AllTrails
Who are we?
The Great Manchester Wetlands project is a partnership between various organisations including;
Cheshire Wildlife Trust | City of Trees | The Conservation Volunteers | Environment Agency | Forestry England | Greater Manchester Ecology Unit | Lancashire Wildlife Trust | University of Manchester | Manchester Metropolitan University | Mersey Rivers Trust | Natural England | Peel Land Group | Royal Society for the Protection of Birds | Salford City Council | Trafford Council | Warrington Borough Council | Wigan Council | Woolston Eyes Conservation Group
Contact us if you would like to find out more about the Great Manchester Wetlands Partnership
Please note that Lancashire Wildlife Trust is hosting the Great Manchester Wetlands Partnership webpage on behalf of the Partnership, and where links are made to other pages within the Lancashire Wildlife Trust website this may go beyond the geographical extent of the Great Manchester Wetlands Partnership area.