Martin Mere Review - A Brilliant Family Day Out in Lancashire

There’s nothing we enjoy more than discovering new family days out across the North West. Whether it’s nature reserves, parks, or hidden gems, we’re always looking for places where we can spend quality time outdoors together. Although we had visited Martin Mere years ago, it had been so long that this trip honestly felt like our first visit all over again. We were excited to explore everything it had to offer..

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre in Lancashire is a fantastic place for families, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys wildlife and the outdoors. With scenic walking trails, bird hides, wetlands, play areas, and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities, it’s the perfect mix of relaxing and family friendly.

Peaceful lake view surrounded by nature at WWT Martin Mere

Arriving at Martin Mere

When we arrived at Martin Mere, we hadn’t booked online beforehand, but the check-in process was quick and easy. The staff were really welcoming and gave us lots of useful information about the site, including how we could upgrade our tickets to annual passes by using the admission fee we had already paid, which was great to know.

Once inside, we decided to start with one of the shorter walking routes. The trail was just over 1 mile return and included stops at Ron Barker Hide, Mere View Hide, Hale Hide, Raines Observatory, Discovery Hide, the viewing platforms, Gladstone Hide, and Janet Kear Hide.

The walk itself was lovely and peaceful, and having the hides dotted along the route made it even more enjoyable. There were several people inside the hides birdwatching, and it was lovely seeing how passionate and knowledgeable they were about wildlife.

Young boy using a telescope to spot wildlife at WWT Martin Mere

Reedbed Walk and Wildlife Spotting

Next, we headed onto the Reedbed Walk, which is slightly longer but absolutely beautiful. Walking alongside the reedbeds felt incredibly peaceful, and there was so much wildlife to spot along the way. We saw dragonflies, caterpillars, and plenty of birds during the walk.

One of the things we loved most about Martin Mere was the relaxed atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where you can really slow down and enjoy being outdoors.

Scenic reedbed landscape at WWT Martin Mere

Picnic Area and Main Wetland Area

After our walks, we headed back to the car to grab our picnic. There are plenty of picnic benches close to the visitor centre entrance, making it really easy for families bringing their own food.

Once we’d finished lunch, we explored the main wetland area where we were greeted by flamingos, ducks, and geese. Birds wander freely around the wetlands, creating a really peaceful atmosphere. We especially loved trying to spot all the baby ducks because there were so many tiny ducklings around during our visit.

Man and young boy enjoying a canoe ride at WWT Martin Mere

Paddle and Play Area

We then made our way over to the boating lake where the boys decided to try the canoes. While it’s definitely not my sort of thing, they absolutely loved it and thought it was one of the best parts of the day.

The canoe experience costs an additional £12 for 30 minutes, but the boys thought it was well worth it..

This whole section of Martin Mere felt newer to us and is called Paddle and Play. The area includes a boating lake, den-building area, wet play zone for younger children, and a kiosk selling drinks and ice creams.

The wet play area is best suited to younger children, especially those aged four and under, but there’s something for all ages around the area.

Young boy enjoying the zipline swing play area at WWT Martin Mere

Otters and Adventure Playground

As well as all the birds, we were also lucky enough to spot the otters, which were incredibly cute and definitely one of the highlights of our visit.

Before heading home, we finished our day at the adventure playground near the visitor centre. The playground is designed for a wide range of ages and was the perfect way to end the day before heading back home.

Young boy looking out across the reeds at WWT Martin Mere

FAQs About Martin Mere

Is Martin Mere good for families?

Yes, Martin Mere is brilliant for families. There are walking trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, play areas, picnic spots, and activities suitable for children of different ages.

Can you take your own food to Martin Mere?

Yes, you can bring your own picnic and there are plenty of picnic benches near the visitor centre.

How long do you need at Martin Mere?

You could easily spend a full day at Martin Mere, especially if you enjoy walking and exploring the different areas.

Is there an extra charge for activities?

Most of Martin Mere is included in the admission price, but activities such as canoeing in the Paddle and Play area cost extra.

Is Martin Mere worth visiting?

Definitely. We had a fantastic day and loved the mix of wildlife, walks, family activities, and peaceful surroundings.

If you’re searching for a family day out in Lancashire or looking for things to do in the North West with kids, Martin Mere Wetland Centre is somewhere we would absolutely recommend visiting.