The reserve's name derives from the three massive spoil heaps that once dominated the skyline before being landscaped.
The site hosts a significant population of great crested newts, a protected species in the United Kingdom.
The park contains remnants of old railway lines that were used to transport coal from the former Three Sisters Colliery.
Large areas of the reserve are designated as Grade 1 Site of Biological Importance due to the diversity of flora and fauna.
The water bodies within the reserve are former clay pits that have been naturally colonized by diverse aquatic ecosystems.
Three Sisters Local Nature Reserve is a post-industrial reclaimed landscape in Wigan, occupying the site of a former colliery and spoil heap. The reserve spans approximately 180 hectares, featuring a diverse array of habitats including woodland, scrub, wildflower meadows, and open water. It is part of the Wigan Greenheart project, a regional initiative focused on linking industrial sites to recreational green spaces. The site contains a notable network of ponds that serve as critical breeding grounds for amphibians and aquatic insects. An extensive internal trail system facilitates walking, birdwatching, and cycling, connecting the reserve to adjacent areas. The landscape is characterized by its rolling topography, a direct result of historical mining activities and subsequent landscaping efforts. It remains a key location for regional biodiversity monitoring due to its varied successional vegetation.
The elevated points along the primary walking loop offering panoramic views over the surrounding water bodies.
Wear waterproof footwear as the trails can become muddy following rain.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the open water attracts a variety of migratory wildfowl.
Check local weather forecasts beforehand as the exposed, open landscape offers little shelter from wind.
Attempting to traverse the overgrown, unofficial trails that deviate from the marked path network.
Keep dogs on a lead in sensitive conservation areas and take all litter home.
