Conservation

The Ribble estuary
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The RSPB on the Ribble

Pink-footed geese from Nel's Hide at Marshside

The Ribble is one of the longest rivers in north-west England. From its source in the spectacular limestone country of the Yorkshire Dales, it flows south-west through Lancashire, meandering through a wide glacial valley, gently rolling hills and pastureland.

The estuary it creates between Blackpool and Southport is the UK’s most important river estuary for wintering birds such as whooper and Bewick’s swans, pink-footed geese, wigeons, knots, dunlins, sanderlings, bar-tailed and black-tailed godwits. 

An incredible 250,000 birds make the estuary their winter home every year.

The Ribble is home to the UK’s pilot project for delivery of the EU’s Water Framework Directive, the most significant piece of European water legislation for over 20 years, which aims to enhance the ecology of our lakes, rivers, groundwater, estuaries and coastal waters. 

This is an important time for the Ribble. We are working with a range of partners and communities to protect and restore this wonderful area through the creation of a new reserve and innovative projects for people and wildlife. 

Click on 'What are we doing?' to find out about our exciting work on the Ribble.

Last modified: 10 January 2006

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