Mere Sands Wood

Location

About

Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve is a tranquil and beautiful destination for any tourist visiting Lancashire, England. It is located in Rufford, just a few miles from Ormskirk, and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature.

This reserve is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the peacefulness of nature. With over 42 hectares of woodland, grassland, and wetland habitats, Mere Sands Wood offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

The reserve is perfect for walking, with many well-maintained trails for visitors to explore. There are several bird hides throughout the reserve, providing the perfect vantage point to observe the birds that call this reserve home. The hides are well-designed, comfortable, and equipped with binoculars to help visitors spot the different bird species.

One of the most unique attractions at Mere Sands Wood is the large pond in the center of the reserve. The pond is home to a wide range of aquatic plants and animals, including fish, frogs, newts, and dragonflies. Visitors can take a stroll around the pond and enjoy the stunning views, or rent a fishing permit to try their luck at catching some fish.

Another attraction that visitors should not miss is the wildlife garden, which showcases a variety of native plants and wildlife. The garden is designed to be accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities and features raised beds, sensory plants, and bird feeders. Children will love the interactive features of the garden, such as the bug hotel and the pond dipping platform.

For those who want to learn more about the reserve's wildlife and habitats, there is a visitor center that houses educational exhibits and interactive displays. The center also provides information on the reserve's history and offers guided walks and educational programs for visitors.

Overall, Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve is a perfect destination for tourists looking to experience the beauty of nature. With its diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, and well-designed trails and amenities, this reserve offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Mere Sands Wood is a picturesque nature reserve located in the heart of Lancashire, England. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. With its stunning scenery and rich wildlife, Mere Sands Wood is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors.

If you're planning a trip to Mere Sands Wood, here are some of the top places and things to do nearby from a tourist perspective:

1. Martin Mere Wetland Centre
The Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a stunning wildlife reserve located just a short drive from Mere Sands Wood. The reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the iconic whooper swans, and offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. The centre also has a café, gift shop, and children's play area.

2. Southport Pier
The historic Southport Pier is one of the town's most popular attractions and is only a short drive from Mere Sands Wood. The pier offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great spot to enjoy a walk or a picnic.

3. Rufford Old Hall
Rufford Old Hall is a beautiful Tudor manor house that is located just a few miles from Mere Sands Wood. The house has been carefully preserved and offers visitors a glimpse into life in the 16th century. The surrounding gardens are also well worth exploring and feature a number of stunning sculptures.

4. The Botanic Gardens at Churchtown
The Botanic Gardens at Churchtown is a hidden gem that is located just a short drive from Mere Sands Wood. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world and are a great spot to relax and unwind.

5. Formby Beach
Formby Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline that is located just a short drive from Mere Sands Wood. The beach offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and is a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

6. Ormskirk Market
Ormskirk Market is a bustling outdoor market that is located just a short drive from Mere Sands Wood. The market features a wide variety of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts and is a great spot to pick up some souvenirs to take home.

7. The Leeds-Liverpool Canal
The Leeds-Liverpool Canal is a historic waterway that is located just a few miles from Mere Sands Wood. The canal offers visitors the chance to take a leisurely boat ride or enjoy a scenic walk along the towpath.

In conclusion, Mere Sands Wood is a wonderful destination for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors. With its stunning scenery and rich wildlife, it's no wonder that this nature reserve is such a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. And with so many other great attractions located nearby, there's no shortage of things to see and do in the area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or an action-packed adventure, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes in this beautiful corner of Lancashire.