About

Pack a picnic not a BBQ
Due to continued warm and dry weather the risk of wildfire is currently high. Please do not light BBQs and make sure to dispose of any rubbish and cigarettes safely as these can be a fire hazard in hot and dry environments
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Nestled between Leeds, York and Wakefield, Fairburn Ings is an exciting site for family activities and excellent wildlife watching. Over the last 60 years, Fairburn Ings has transitioned from coal face to wild place. An ex-industrial site rich in heritage, this reserve is now an important site for breeding and wintering wildfowl.

Collapsed land is now open water, reedbeds, wet grasslands and wet woodlands. Former coal spoil tips have been transformed into grasslands, deciduous woodlands and lagoons teeming with life. In recent years the reserve has become home to some of the UK’s rarest birds, including Bittern, Bearded Tit, Cetti’s Warbler, Little Egret and Spoonbill.

At a glance

See what’s here

This is a great location to spot Kingfishers

The vibrant azure and copper feathers of the Kingfisher make them one of the UK’s most colourful and instantly recognisable birds. But blink and you’ll miss them – they dart along rivers and streams at high speeds. RSPB nature reserves and our care-taking teams provide safe wetland havens for these special birds and their fishy prey.

A lone Great White Egret fishing in front of reedbeds.
Great White Egret
Egrets break records and spring arrivals: highlights from West Yorkshire’s wetlands

Ready to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Retreat to the Aire Valley to see the best of spring.

Plan your visit

Pack a picnic not a BBQ

Due to continued warm and dry weather the risk of wildfire is currently high. Please do not light BBQs and make sure to dispose of any rubbish and cigarettes safely as these can be a fire hazard in hot and dry environments

Downloadable trail maps

Events at Fairburn Ings

Discover exciting events all year at Fairburn Ings. You can join us for guided walks or take part in Nature Quest by hiring out a backpack!

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 Fairburn Ings