RSPB Leighton Moss

Leighton Moss is a big RSPB wetland near Silverdale, a few miles north of Carnforth, and it is one of the few nature reserves that works with children who have not yet learned to be quiet. The paths are level and well kept, the hides break the walk into short hops, and the reserve lists otters, marsh harriers, bearded tits, bitterns, red deer and kingfishers among the things you might see.

Non-members pay £10 an adult, the first child goes free and any further children are £5, under 5s are free, and RSPB members get in for nothing. There are four trails, from a 380 metre garden loop to the 3.2 km Lower Trail, plus a coastal trail out to the saltmarsh hides a mile away, one of which is named after Eric Morecambe. Seven hides in all, open dawn to dusk.

The visitor centre is a converted barn with the cafe upstairs, open 9.30 to 5 every day with hot food until 3. Otters are never guaranteed, so set expectations in the car.

What it costs: Non-members: adults £10, the first child free, further children 5 to 17 £5, 16 to 24 year olds free, students £7, under 5s free. RSPB members free. Non-members who arrive by public transport or bike pay £5. No need to book, pay at the visitor centre.

Looking for more days out in Carnforth & Silverdale?