About

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 ducks and geese 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, wild play areas and The Lookout, a hide especially designed for families. You can hire discovery backpacks and we have family trails and activity sheets. From April to the end of October you can also hire pond dipping kits.

At a glance

See what’s here

Recent sightings at Old Moor

Check out which species we've seen at recently at Old Moor

Star Bird Species

  • Bittern - regular sightings from the Bittern Hide and Bittern Bus Stop
  • Marsh-Harrier - regular sightings over the reedbeds from various locations across the reserve
  • Hobby - regular sightings over the reedbeds
  • Great White Egret -  Field Pools July 3
  • Ruff - Wath Ings July 3
  • Whimbrel - The Mere July 2

For more detailed and up to date bird sightings, please follow us on Facebook for regular posting.

Dragonfly and Damselfly sightings

  • Four Spotted Chaser
  • Large Red Damselfly
  • Azure Damselfly
  • Hairy Dragonfly
  • Common Blue Damselfly
  • Black Tailed Skimmer
  • Small Red-Eyed Damselfly
  • Brown Hawker
  • Ruddy Darter
  • Blue Tailed Damselfly
  • Red-Eyed Damselfly
  • Banded Demoiselle
  • Broad Bodies Chaser
  • Emperor Dragonfly
  • Southern Hawker
     

Plan your visit

Events at Old Moor

Discover exciting events all year at Dearne Valley - Old Moor. Join us for a dragonfly walk in summer, guided pond dipping in autumn and much more!

Dearne Valley Dedication Page

We know that Dearne Valley is a special place for many. If you or your loved one have shared happy memories there, you can make a donation to the reserve on our dedication page. It can be in celebration or in memory, and you can post an image along with your message.

Save nature while you staycation

Holidaycottages.co.uk is working with the RSPB to restore UK woodland for future generations to enjoy. Every booking with Holidaycottages.co.uk supports woodland restoration projects at key RSPB reserves around the country, protecting the wildlife that makes the UK an extraordinary place for a holiday.

New to Holidaycottages.co.uk portfolio of handpicked self-catering holiday cottages is the Showcase Collection: Near RSPB Reserves. At these extraordinary homes, immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes of RSPB reserves and get up close to some of the UK’s most cherished native wildlife.

Contact Dearne Valley – Old Moor