Accessible nature reserves

An accessible path through a bluebell wood

Amy Lewis

Accessibility on our nature reserves

Access for all

We believe that limited mobility shouldn't mean missing out on wildlife. Many of our reserves have accessible paths and boardwalks, disabled facilities and accessible bird hides, so you can fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors and discover the wonderful wildlife that lives on your doorstep.

A child in a wheelchair visiting an accessible nature reserve

Ade Clarke @ClarkePictures

The natural world should be for everyone

We are working hard to make sure our beautiful reserves can be accessed by everyone.

Find your nearest accessible nature reserve

Not sure where to go for your next nature walk? Plan ahead and find an accessible nature reserve in Lancashire.

Brockholes

Brockholes' floating Visitor Village during spring

Brockholes Nature Reserve by Charlotte Varela

A wetland wonder that brims with beautiful birds. Most of the footpaths are level and surfaced, and the kissing gates are accessible for smaller wheelchairs. There is a vehicle access gate next to all kissing gates on surfaced paths - if you use a large mobility vehicle or pushchair you can obtain a key to these gates.

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Cross Hill Quarry

A tunnel formed by trees at Cross Hill Quarry nature reserve

Most of the footpaths in this mosaic of woodland and meadows are wheelchair-friendly.  Cross Hill Quarry is a haven for orchids, while spring brings migrating warblers, grey wagtails and sand martins.

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Foxhill Bank

Trees in the middle of a tranquil pond at Foxhill Bank nature reserve

Foxhill Bank by Alan Wright

A hidden gem in the heart of Oswaldtwistle. The reserve is wheelchair accessible, but there are some steep steps on circular routes. Jewel-like kingfishers brighten up the brook and dippers bob along the rocks.

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Mere Sands Wood

Great crested grebes performing their courtship dance with weeds in their mouths

Great crested grebes by Andrew Parkinson/2020VISION

A tranquil wildlife oasis that is a haven for wildfowl, waders and wildflowers. There are a number of bird hides and the reserve is accessible for wheelchairs. Sparrowhawks, buzzards, great-crested grebes and great-spotted woodpeckers are just a handful of the breeding species.

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