Amazing wild places across Yorkshire for families to enjoy Best for Families
North
Staveley
There are lots of amazing wildlife spectacles within easy reach – the burst of wildflowers in summer, starling murmurations wheeling overhead in winter, views from the top of the central hill and reserve hides, and roe deer and otters for those who can keep quiet! Surfaced tracks make it easy for little legs and pushchairs to explore.
Ripon City Wetlands
A feast for the senses; enjoy the rustling of reeds, the pattering feet and beating wings of a mute swan taking off, the buzz of a nearby dragonfly or the views across the lakes. Younger visitors can enjoy a hands-on experience with our sensory trail, interactive information and audio station, where you can listen to bird calls and hear about the reserve’s wildlife.
South
Sprotbrough Flash
Whether you fancy a stunning riverside ramble along the towpath or something a little more involved, Sprotbrough Flash is the place to be! Wild explorers can spot swathes of wildflowers in the summer sun, the dart of dragonflies and kingfishers over the river, and fungi dotted through the woodland in the autumn.
Potteric Carr
This diverse wildlife wonderland has something for everyone! Discover the story trail, try some pond-dipping, hunt for fungi in the woodlands or watch a starling murmuration overhead –finish with a hot drink and treat at the visitor centre. Potteric Carr also has a brilliant events programme for all ages, including Forest Tots sessions, wildlife watching and much more, and a network of pushchair-friendly paths.
Moorlands
A charming little woodland with majestic old trees and colourful spring flowers. Moorlands’ irresistible tree house makes this a firm favourite with younger visitors who also love the nature trail, pond-dipping, and wooden sculptures. Look carefully for bat boxes hidden in the trees and spot autumn fungi.
North Cave Wetlands
This is a fantastic place to get close to nature for slightly older wildlife watchers; our five hides are the perfect place for spotting stoats, birds of prey, avocets and even the occasional otter! Smaller visitors will enjoy the colours of summer butterflies and wildflowers. There are toilets onsite and a network of paths provide easy walking.
West
Hetchell Woods
With gnarly exposed tree roots, hidden dens, secret pools and crags to explore – as well as carpets of wild garlic in spring – Hetchell Woods is the reserve where childhood memories are made. The perfect place for a cool summer picnic then return to swoosh in the autumn leaves!
Rothwell
Country Park
The perfect introduction to the wild outdoors; hedgehogs, rabbits, bats and deer live in the woods, and the meadows burst in summertime with flowers and buzzing insects. Especially curious wild visitors can explore a sculpture trail and pond trail, and parts of the reserve are suitable for pushchairs.
Our members make a real and lasting difference for Yorkshire’s wildlife and wild places. Please join us today!
When you join us, you’ll enjoy:
n Unlimited free admission and parking at our visitor centres
n A subscription to our quarterly Wildlife Yorkshire magazine
n Discounts on some of our unforgettable wild events
n Invitations to exclusive experiences and more!
Plus when you pay by monthly Direct Debit, we’ll also send you a FREE copy of Discover Yorkshire’s Wildlife worth £14.99 - the most comprehensive guide to where, when and how to see wildlife in Yorkshire!
And for the kids with our family membership:
n Four Wildlife Watch magazines a year, packed with fun activities, competitions, quizzes and more
n A wildlife watchers handbook, filled with hints and tips to get closer to wildlife
n A bumper welcome pack, stuffed with stickers, badges, posters
