WWT Martin Mere — Attraction in West Lancashire

We had a wonderful day out here however, if you thought being a member would be beneficial financially... you're in for a shock! It cost us near £50 for 4 small packet sandwiches (hardly any filling though bread was nice), 3 packs of crisps, 4 drinks and 2 small cakes. We would've enjoyed it had We not been overtaken by wasps at the table. I understand it's a nature reserve but after spending the equivalent of a restaurant amount for 2 under 12yo children and 2 adults .. it would've been nice to eat it. You can't take the sandwiches or drinks elsewhere as they take the tops at the till so on a hot day we weren't able to purchase drinks to walk arpund with. Prices for everything are quite hidden too so you get wuite a shock at the till. Be careful. Luckily we had our cooler bag with other water but just a heads up to those visiting. There was absolutely no other incentive, discount or bonus to being a member which was disappointing.

I advise people to pack a picnic or go up the road (the bottom of red cat lane and turn right) where there is a subway inside the supermarket. Ice slushes and everything you could need.

I was glad I bottle fed as there's no way it was child/baby/breastfeeding friendly in the cafe. If I were you, go around to the other park areas and feed your baby so you can relax ... without the wasps.

Aside from the cafe issues .. the rest of the park was just how I remembered as a child. Animals were clearly VERY happy and well cared for. The ducks were brave and some will eat from your hand which absolutely delighted the kids and made their day. I said I'd definitely come back here as a bird in my next life... just so peaceful. Kids were a bit bored as unless they are real bird enthusiasts there isn't much to get them Interested in learning and it is a bit monotonous. Maybe needs some other interactive things for the public but seems to be focused on school visits and not really bothered about the public which is a shame.

All in all, a nice day out but I doubt I'll stay a member. National trust membership would be more beneficial to us I feel sadly. Will still make a donation...

Martin Mere is, without a doubt, one of the best family-friendly days out in the north west — and our family cannot recommend it highly enough.

We joined with a family membership and were immediately impressed by the outstanding value for money. Every member of our group had a different favourite experience, which really speaks to the range and quality of what’s on offer here.

Accessibility is clearly a top priority at Martin Mere, and they’ve done a wonderful job. One of our family members uses a wheelchair, and it was such a relief and joy to find that nearly all areas — including the beautifully maintained hides — are wheelchair accessible. The pathways are wide, well-surfaced, and easy to navigate, making the whole reserve feel inclusive and welcoming.

Our 7-year-old was in absolute heaven spotting birds, pond dipping (at no extra cost!), and getting creative in the craft room (a small charge to make badges, but totally worth it).

But for me, the true standout was the canoe safari. For just £12, you get an hour of peaceful paddling around a winding waterway where ducks, geese, and their adorable babies glide right by. It’s an unforgettable experience — calming, immersive, and a unique way to connect with the wildlife. The staff running the canoe safari were absolutely wonderful: friendly, helpful, and clearly enjoy what they do.

What makes Martin Mere so special is the balance it strikes between curated habitats and more natural, wild-feeling wetlands. There’s a sense of wonder around every corner, whether you’re looking a thoughtfully designed enclosure of otters or a quiet, secluded hide.

If you're looking for a place that combines education, adventure, tranquility, and accessibility — Martin Mere is it. We’ll be returning...

We are very lucky to have this Wildlife and Wetlands Trust right on our door step, the work they do is great. We visited on a weekday so it wasnt too busy, all the species looked healthy and in great condition, unfortunately because of the bird flu they had put a ban on hand feeding by visitors so it was a bit heart breaking when a swan comes up to you bobbing its neck and honking for some tasty nibbles, but rules are rules. When we visited there was a lot of ground work going on presumably for the summer season so some parts looked a bit messy. But overall its a very pleasant place to spend a few hours in the company of many unique bird species. The disabled parking was very welcome, and the disabled facilities were very clean, the walk also has plenty of benches should you need a few minutes break. The café was choker, but its a very large venue so we didn't have to wait long for a seat, prices are unsurprisingly premium, similar price to Costa Coffee, food selection is limited but its enough to fill an gap, we opted for toasties which where hot and well presented, would be stunning on a good weather day to sit outside and eat on the seating around the lake, but as this was the start of Feb it was far too cold, although a few people braved it. The main reason why I couldn't give it 5 stars is the admission price, which is on the verge of Alton Towers kinda prices, and I know it goes back into the centre, wildlife etc, but if you were taking a n older family or a group of adults, admission could easily run into the hundreds, which is a lot just to admire the species and enjoy the grounds. But its certainly...