About

Wander through wetland habitats at Old Moor, stopping to take in sweeping views from the hides, Kingfisher-spotting opportunities and the chance to hear the elusive Bittern boom. This family-friendly nature reserve is teeming with wildlife. Enjoy idyllic walks, wildlife watching, pond-dipping plus an adventure playground for kids. 

In spring, Great-crested Grebes put on a show for mating season, while summer sees the meadow come alive with orchids, wildflowers and butterflies. In autumn, look out for Barn Owls swooping across the reedbeds and meadows. The winter months bring vast flocks of wildfowl including Wigeons (listen out for their whistling call), and birds of prey which send them scattering into the sky.  

Old Moor is a brilliant reserve for little ones, with an adventure playground and a hide especially designed for families. Head to our Activity Zone during the holidays for free craft activities or stop by the visitor centre to pick up discovery backpacks, activity sheets and – from April to the end of October – pond-dipping kits.  

At a glance

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Find out about school visits

Bring your science and geography lessons to life with our curriculum linked sessions run by our learning team on the reserve. We offer a variety of hands on, practical sessions which you can choose from. Find out more about our school visits here.

Contact Dearne Valley – Old Moor