As I swept the doorstep of the Inn this morning I heard a sound which quickened my heart and made my soul leap. The sound of bird song, the sound of spring. After a long cold Winter here in the North West the mere mention of spring is something we all rejoice in and especially in the pleasures of the springtime birdsong.
There is, in fact, no-where finer to appreciate the pleasure and wide variety of birdsong than here in the Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Nestled in our woodlands is the RSPB Leighton Moss Reserve, in spring you can be lucky enough to spot Avocets in the pools and ponds, Bittens hovering around the edge of the frozen waters and even a March Harrier sky dancing over the reed beds.
The nature reserve is a bustling place in Spring with not only wildlife but visitors alike. The reserve hosts activities and events suited to the avid twitcher and novice weekender. At the end of February newbies to the hobby can enjoy a wildlife guided walk with a chance to learn more about identifying wetland birds followed by a brew and bacon butty.
For the family looking to enjoy a day out in Spring, Leighton Moss has developed a ‘Natures Homes’ Wild Challenge Trail. A chance for families to work together to discover all the places that nature calls home on a self-led trail.
Budding photographers and those who have yet to put their Christmas Cameras to the test can make good on New Years Resolutions with the RSPB’s one-day photography workshop. Inspiration and field craft tips from experienced, published wildlife photographer Mike Malpass will help you to produce some beautiful shots of the areas unique wildlife.
The Reserve offers something for everyone, activities abound, but in truth, for me, all these activities do not compare to a quiet walk with a flask and a pair of binoculars. I confess, I don’t know the names of the birds but I thats OK, I can always go back to the bar at The Wheatsheaf and enjoy a look through the Collins Book of British Birds and make my guess over a pot of tea and a scone.
The reserve is open all year round and is welcome to all. Well behaved dogs are allowed but they must be kept on a lead and under control. Plenty to see and do for all ages, visit the hides, explore the trails and enjoy the views from their sky-tower.
Situated just a ten minute drive or a pleasant hour and a half stroll from our door.