Wetland Wonders: Discover Nature’s Havens Along the TPT

Earlier this week, people across the globe came together to celebrate World Wetlands Day (2nd February) — a day that always reminds us just how special these watery, wildlife rich places are. This year’s theme, “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” highlighted something many Trail users already feel instinctively: wetlands aren’t just habitats, they’re places with stories, identityrich places are. This year’s theme, “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” highlighted something many Trail users already feel instinctively: wetlands aren’t just habitats, they’re places with stories, identity and deep roots in the landscapes they shape. 

Wetlands are some of the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They store carbon, support countless species, reduce flooding, clean our water, and bring colour and life to places that would feel very empty without them. Yet, sadly, they’re still disappearing at an alarming speed — up to three times faster than forests. That’s exactly why they deserve our attention, care, and celebration. 

And since February is #LoveYourTPT month, it’s a great time to spotlight the wetlands that make the Trans Pennine Trail so special. Whether you’re walking, cycling, riding, wheeling, bird-spotting, or just taking a quiet moment to breathe, wetlands have a way of slowing you down and reminding you why you love being outdoors. 

 We celebrate wetlands because they: 

• Support thousands of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered ones 

• Store and filter water, helping to prevent flooding 

• Carry cultural stories and traditional knowledge 

• And — in true #LoveYourTPT style — they make our journeys along the Trail feel magical 

Wetlands to Love Along the Trans Pennine Trail
Sefton Coast: Stretching for 20km between Liverpool and Southport, the Sefton Coast is home to some of England’s largest sand dunes and wetland habitats. Its dune slacks and reedbeds support Natterjack toads, wildflowers, and a whole host of coastal species. It’s a place of constant movement — wind, sand, birds, tides — and it’s impossible not to fall a little more in love with it every time you visit. 

Mersey Estuary: One of Britain’s most significant wetlands, the Mersey Estuary supports more than 100,000 nonbreeding waterbirds. Think shelduck, Dunlin, Teal, Pintail, Black-tailed godwits — the list goes on. Its huge spreads of saltmarsh and mudflat have earned it Ramsar, SPA and SSSI status. For anyone passing through the Widnes and Halton section of the TPT, the estuary’s sweeping views are always worth slowing down for. 

Pickering’s Pasture (Widnes): This former landfill site has been completely transformed into a tranquil wetland nature reserve filled with wildflower meadows and beautiful views across the Mersey. Once grazing saltmarsh, restored in the 1980s, it now flourishes with butterflies, waders and birds of prey. It’s directly on the TPT, making it an easy and delightful February stop off. 

Spike Island (Widnes): Spike Island has one of the most fascinating transformations on the Trail. Once at the heart of Britain’s chemical industry, it’s now a green expanse of parkland, woodland and wetlands, with the Sankey Canal towpath linking it to the TPT. Its peaceful watersides make it a great place for a reflective moment. 

Sale Water Park (Greater Manchester): Just off the Mersey lies the lake at Sale Water Park, surrounded by wetlands and meadows. The Broad Ees Dole wetland area is managed especially for waders like Common Snipe and Little Ringed Plover, with migratory birds dropping in throughout the year. It’s a wonderful place to reconnect with nature — especially during a crisp February walk. 

Reddish Vale Country Park (Stockport): Following the River Tame, Reddish Vale’s wetlands and mill ponds welcome an impressive range of wildlife, including Herons, Grebes, Cormorants, Coots, Ducks and Geese. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a Sand Martin or Kingfisher — perfect moments to share during #LoveYourTPT month. 

RSPB Dearne Valley – Old Moor (Barnsley): Old Moor is one of Yorkshire’s standout wetland reserves, created from restored former industrial land. Its lakes, reedbeds and marshes are alive with Bitterns, Avocets, Lapwings, Golden Plovers and countless wintering wildfowl. With its hides, trails, and family friendly feel, it’s the perfect February day out location. 

Shire Brook Valley Nature Reserve (Sheffield): Across these 100 acres you’ll find ponds, wetlands, woodlands and meadows home to Herons, Kingfishers, Water Voles, Dragonflies and even the endangered Great Crested Newt. Recent wetland restoration works have really strengthened the site. Parts of the TPT run through the valley, making it wonderfully accessible. 

Walton Colliery Nature Park (Wakefield): From colliery to nature haven, Walton Colliery Nature Park now offers wetlands, lakes, woodland, wildflowers, orchids and plenty of wildlife. The TPT runs straight through it, and with so many paths for walking, cycling and riding, it’s a fantastic spot to explore and share during #LoveYourTPT month. 

Hornsea Mere (East Yorkshire): Right at the eastern end of the TPT sits Hornsea Mere — Yorkshire’s largest freshwater lake and internationally important for wintering wildfowl. Its reedbeds, woodlands and open water attract Reed Warblers, Little Gulls, Gadwall, Goldeneye and lots of migratory visitors. It’s a beautiful place to finish (or start!) your TPT journey. 

Share the Love This February 

This is just a selection of Wetlands you’ll find along the TPT and every one adds something special to the Trail — a moment of calm, a burst of birdsong, a surprise sighting, a new perspective. They are places to explore, enjoy and protect. 

This February, why not: 

• Share a photo of your favourite TPT wetland 

• Reflect on how these places boost your wellbeing 

• Join a volunteer session 

• Try a bit of birdwatching 

• Take a friend to discover a new corner of the Trail 

Here’s to celebrating our wetlands, loving our Trail, and protecting these special landscapes. 

Robert | TPT Technical Assistant
Date: 6th February, 2026

         
Mandy Loach                Hannah Beaumont     Robert Drummond