A new 'jewel in the crown' trail improves access to nature
A scenic trail from RSPB Leighton Moss offers easy access to vital reedbeds and iconic wildlife habitats in the Arnside and Silverdale landscape.
On this page
The ‘Three Nature Reserves Accessible Trail’ allows exploration of RSPB Leighton Moss, Gait Barrows and Trowbarrow Nature Reserves in the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape, which straddles the Cumbria/Lancashire border.
Where does the trail go?
Starting at RSPB Leighton Moss Visitor Centre, this route takes you through some of the UK’s most incredible wildlife habitats and scenery. You’ll get easy access to the North West’s biggest reedbed — home to brilliant birds like Bitterns, Marsh Harriers and Bearded Tits.
From there, the trail heads to Trowbarrow Local Nature Reserve, where you can spot fossils from old limestone quarrying, as well as Bee and Fly Orchids. It then continues to Gait Barrows, one of the UK’s most important limestone landscapes and a great place to look out for butterflies like the Duke of Burgundy.
Next up is Coldwell Meadows, where wildflower-packed grasslands and traditional hay meadows put on an amazing summer display.
From booming Bitterns to bright patches of Bird’s-foot Trefoil, there’s loads to see, hear and soak up along the way.
The final stretch takes you through limestone woodland with ancient yew trees, past an old limekiln, and out to some incredible views across Silverdale Moss to Arnside Tower — honestly, one of the best views around.
It’s a bit of a challenge in places, with a mix of path types, but with all-terrain mobility vehicles (trampers) available, it’s now possible to get off the beaten track and properly explore.
How do I hire an all-terrain mobility vehicle?
Three all-terrain mobility vehicles are available to hire, free of charge, from RSPB Leighton Moss. Full driving instructions are provided, and Bay Search and Rescue teams are on hand should any emergency assistance be required at any time.
The vehicles are very simple to use; a driving licence isn’t required! They open up the wider landscape for many who may previously have experienced barriers to accessing those slightly wilder natural spaces.
Working in partnership
Place-based charity Morecambe Bay Partnership has worked with Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape, Arnside and Silverdale Landscape Trust, Bay Search and Rescue, Natural England and RSPB to create more inclusive access, so more people can enjoy the Bay’s inspiring landscapes, nature, history and culture.
The creation of the route and purchase, maintenance and insurance of the mobility vehicles was funded through a grant from the Coastal Communities Fund awarded to Morecambe Bay Partnership in 2021.
Sarah Mason, CEO at Morecambe Bay Partnership said; “We are delighted that this accessible trail is now open for all to enjoy. The benefits of getting out into nature to experience the beauty of the landscape are immeasurable and now people who have difficulty accessing the countryside can have a real adventure with their friends and family with the added bonus of refreshments in the Leighton Moss cafe at the end.’’
Jarrod Sneyd, Senior Site manager RSPB Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay reserves said; “Today’s route launch is another milestone in wider collaboration to make this special landscape bigger, better and more connected for people and wildlife. It’s a strong model of joined-up delivery between nature conservation and community organisations and demonstrates our shared aspirations for our landscape.”
An official launch event took place on Tuesday 12 May at Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, where the route was officially opened by RSPB CEO, Beccy Speight and Natural England’s Cumbria Deputy Director Helen Kirkby.