RSPB Dearne Valley Old Moor
A vibrant nature reserve with diverse wetlands and reed beds, offering excellent wildlife viewing, photography, and family-friendly activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
RSPB Dearne Valley Old Moor
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant nature reserve with diverse wetlands and reed beds, offering excellent wildlife viewing, photography, and family-friendly activities.
"A fabulous nature reserve with excellent paths and hides, a must-visit for birders and families."
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Bring binoculars for the best birdwatching experience; many visitors find them essential for spotting distant wildlife.
Check recent sightings :clipboard:
Visit the RSPB Old Moor website for up-to-date sightings to help plan your wildlife spotting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wetland Wonders
Wetland areas and viewing hides
Observe diverse birdlife like avocets and great crested grebes in these tranquil wetland habitats.
Reed Bed Atmosphere
Reed beds and associated hides
Experience the unique, atmospheric charm of the reed beds, a haven for specific bird species.
Wildlife Encounters
Various points around the reserve
From feeding robins to squirrels, enjoy close-up encounters with nature's inhabitants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Wildlife
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Bring binoculars for the best birdwatching experience; many visitors find them essential for spotting distant wildlife.
Check recent sightings :clipboard:
Visit the RSPB Old Moor website for up-to-date sightings to help plan your wildlife spotting.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the trails and hides around the reserve.
Kid-friendly fun :child:
The reserve offers activities and an adventure playground, making it great for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Bring binoculars for the best birdwatching experience; many visitors find them essential for spotting distant wildlife.
Check recent sightings :clipboard:
Visit the RSPB Old Moor website for up-to-date sightings to help plan your wildlife spotting.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the trails and hides around the reserve.
Kid-friendly fun :child:
The reserve offers activities and an adventure playground, making it great for families.
Capture the moments :camera_with_flash:
Bring your camera for stunning wildlife photography, especially during golden hour. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise RSPB Old Moor as a fabulous nature reserve with well-maintained paths, excellent hides, and abundant wildlife, making it a great day out for all ages. The free entry and family-friendly amenities like the cafe and playground are frequently highlighted as positives.
"A fabulous nature reserve just on the edge of Rotherham . There are two main habitats, reed beds and wetlands, with an excellent set of paths and hides linking them.
The amenities and presentation are fabulous, with masses of stuff for kids to see and do. There is ample parking, a good cafe and shop and when we went there the place was thronged. The wetlands are very calm and tranquil though, and the reed beds very atmospheric.
A excellent day out and well worth a visit."
Martin Rapier
"This site is well set out, nice walks and lots of hides. The visitors centre is well set out cafe, toilets, shop and some staff were helpful others not so much. This is very much a 9 to 5 site it's a shame the wildlife doesn't realise that. My complaint is the parking shuts here at 5pm and the gates are locked which I find rediculous when this site has 5 other sites surrounding it that don't have parking you must use Old Moor parking and walk to them, but the parking limits at Old Moor don't give you enough time and if you are shut on you have to pay to be let out."
Helen Milnes
"First time visiting today and thoroughly enjoyed my 4 hours strolling slowly around. Definitely be back again. Impressed with the whole reserve on a par with Minsmere. Great for children activities, lovely shop and cafe"
Phil Moore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
RSPB Dearne Valley Old Moor is accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's also reachable by public transport, though specific routes may vary. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available at RSPB Old Moor. However, be aware that the parking lot closes and gates are locked at 5 PM, which can be restrictive if you plan a longer visit or wish to explore surrounding areas.
The reserve is located near the Trans Pennine Trail, making it accessible for cyclists. You can cycle to the midpoint marker and enjoy the surrounding nature.
RSPB Old Moor is situated on the edge of Rotherham and is a short distance from Sheffield and Barnsley, making it a convenient nature escape for residents of these areas.
The reserve is generally well-set out with nice walks and hides, suggesting good accessibility. However, it's always best to check with the RSPB directly for specific accessibility details regarding paths and hides.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to RSPB Old Moor is free, though donations are encouraged to help maintain the reserve and its facilities.
RSPB Old Moor operates as a 9 to 5 site, with the parking lot closing and gates locked at 5 PM. It's advisable to check the official RSPB website for the most current opening hours.
As entry is free and donations are encouraged, advance booking of tickets is typically not required for general visits to RSPB Old Moor.
RSPB reserves often host special events, family activities, and guided walks. It's recommended to check the RSPB Old Moor events calendar on their website for upcoming activities.
Generally, RSPB reserves have specific policies regarding dogs to protect wildlife. It's best to check the RSPB Old Moor website for their current policy on bringing dogs to the reserve.
🎫 🥽 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of birds, including reed buntings, great crested grebes, avocets, cormorants, and mallards. Squirrels are also common.
Yes, RSPB Old Moor features an excellent set of viewing hides that allow visitors to observe the wetland and reed bed habitats discreetly.
The visitor centre at RSPB Old Moor typically includes toilets, a cafe serving homemade food, and a shop.
Absolutely! The reserve is a fantastic spot for wildlife photography, with opportunities to capture birds, dragonflies, and other creatures, especially during golden hour.
Yes, the reserve offers a network of well-maintained walking trails that connect the different habitats and viewing hides, making it easy to explore.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, RSPB Old Moor has a cafe that offers homemade food, providing a pleasant spot to rest and refuel during your visit.
The cafe typically serves a range of refreshments and homemade food, suitable for a casual lunch or snack while enjoying the nature reserve.
While there's a cafe, visitors are often welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in designated areas, though it's best to confirm this with the reserve.
Cafes at RSPB reserves usually offer a selection of options. It's advisable to check the current menu or inquire at the cafe for specific vegetarian or vegan choices.
Yes, there is a shop at the visitor centre where you can purchase gifts, souvenirs, and potentially bird-feeding supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during golden hour, offer beautiful light and increased wildlife activity, making them ideal for photography.
You can photograph a wide array of birds, including finches, mallards, and waterfowl, as well as insects like dragonflies.
The various viewing hides offer excellent vantage points for photographing wildlife in their natural habitats, particularly around the wetland and reed bed areas.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of birds and other wildlife. A tripod can also be useful for stability, especially in hides.
With patience and quiet observation, you might get close-up shots. Some visitors have even reported robins eating mealworms from their hands.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your kids to bring their curiosity! The reserve's well-maintained paths and viewing hides are easy for families to navigate. Consider packing binoculars for the children to enhance their wildlife spotting experience. The cafe also offers a convenient spot for a family break.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+3The viewing hides offer excellent, discreet opportunities to photograph wildlife without disturbance. Don't forget to look out for dragonflies and squirrels for a broader range of subjects. The reserve's varied habitats ensure a constant stream of photographic potential throughout the day.
+1🐦 Birdwatchers
Checking the recent sightings on the RSPB website before your visit can help you target specific species. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most productive times for spotting a wider range of birds. Remember to bring your binoculars for the best experience!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Habitats
Beyond the primary wetland and reed bed areas, the reserve also supports other habitats that contribute to its rich biodiversity. These can include grasslands and scrubland, which provide foraging and nesting sites for smaller birds and mammals. Keep an eye out for squirrels scampering through the trees or the flash of a robin in the undergrowth. The presence of these varied environments ensures that RSPB Old Moor is a dynamic and engaging destination for nature enthusiasts throughout the year.
+1For those interested in entomology, the reserve is also a hotspot for insects, particularly during warmer months. Dragonflies are frequently spotted, with species like the hairy dragonfly being a notable resident. These insects play a vital role in the food chain, supporting bird populations and adding another layer of interest for visitors. The careful management of these habitats by the RSPB ensures their continued health and the thriving populations of the wildlife they support.
Photography at RSPB Old Moor
+2Visitors frequently recommend bringing telephoto lenses to get close-up shots of the avian residents, such as mallards, finches, and great tits. The strategically placed viewing hides provide excellent, unobtrusive vantage points for photographers to observe and capture wildlife without disturbing them. Patience is key, as is understanding the behavior of the animals. Some visitors have even experienced incredibly close encounters, like a robin feeding from their hand, offering unique photographic moments.
Beyond birds, the reserve is also home to other photogenic subjects like squirrels, which are often seen foraging. The hairy dragonfly is another popular subject for macro photographers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an amateur with a smartphone, RSPB Old Moor offers a rewarding experience for anyone looking to capture the beauty of nature through their lens.
+1Family Fun and Activities
Beyond the playground, the reserve often hosts children's activities and events, making visits educational and entertaining. These can range from nature trails with scavenger hunts to hands-on workshops. The chance to see a variety of birds and other creatures, such as squirrels, can be incredibly exciting for children. Some visitors have even reported memorable moments like a robin eating mealworms directly from their hand, creating lasting impressions.
The visitor centre also plays a role in the family experience, with a cafe and shop providing amenities. The overall atmosphere is welcoming, and the free entry, with optional donations, makes it an affordable outing for families looking to connect with nature. The well-laid-out paths and hides are also manageable for families with young children.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit