Martin Mere is situated on the site of a former glacial lake that was once the largest inland freshwater lake in Lancashire.
During the winter, the site hosts up to 30,000 Pink-footed geese that commute from Iceland to feed on surrounding agricultural land.
The reserve acts as a crucial refuge for the critically endangered Eurasian bittern.
The site provides a 'Swan Lake' spectacle during winter months when thousands of Whooper swans congregate on the main mere.
The centre operates a captive collection of wildfowl from around the world, including rare species like the Hawaiian goose or Nene.
WWT Martin Mere is a 150-hectare wetland reserve near Ormskirk that serves as a vital stopover for tens of thousands of migratory birds. The site features a mix of reedbeds, lakes, and marshes managed specifically to support rare wildfowl species like the Whooper swan and Pink-footed goose. Visitors access a network of hides designed for wildlife observation and photography across the reserve. The centre includes an indoor discovery zone and an adventure play area for families. Dedicated conservation work here focuses on protecting endangered species and restoring natural wetland habitats. The site is a designated Ramsar site and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Educational programming includes guided walks and daily bird-feeding demonstrations. The terrain is flat and mostly accessible, consisting of boardwalks and gravel paths.
The Discovery Hide provides the best panoramic views of the main mere for wide-angle landscape and bird flock photography.
Bring high-quality binoculars or a spotting scope, as wildlife is often observed at a significant distance from the hides.
Check the 'What's On' board upon arrival for daily bird-feeding times, which are the best opportunities to see shy species up close.
Wear footwear suitable for muddy or damp ground, as the peripheral trails remain prone to moisture even in summer.
Do not attempt to feed wild birds your own food, as this disrupts their specialized diets and encourages dependency.
Maintain silence within the bird hides; avoid sudden movements or loud vocalizations to prevent spooking the wildlife.
