Top 4 Lakes around Scarisbrick
Best lakes around Scarisbrick are found in a rural area characterized by small woodlands, open fields, and scattered small lakes and ponds. This region offers a mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands, providing diverse natural habitats. The area includes significant local attractions near the locality, offering specific recreational opportunities. These water features contribute to the rural charm and provide peaceful spots for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Scarisbrick
- The most popular lakes is Twin Lakes Velo Café, a cafe…
Last updated: October 3, 2026
Martin Mere Wetland Centre
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Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve
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Twin Lakes Velo Café
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Tips from the Community
Be advised that the car park now has a fee.
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If you go very early, there is a barn owl that you may catch a glimpse of. The last time I visited she was teaching her young how to hunt.
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Around 8000 years ago as Britain was becoming the island that we recognise today the earliest people living here were hunter-gatherers in what is known as the Mesolithic period. Evidence for where they lived is widespread in Britain and many sites have been archaeologically excavated. However, good surviving evidence for how these people lived is restricted to a very few sites. The common view has been that they were scattered nomadic people who lived in small groups with little evidence for them building substantial settlements. In the last ten years or so understanding of the period has begun to improve slowly with new discoveries that have modified this view. The most recent discovery in 2012-13 of rare 8,000 year old houses at Lunt Meadows, Sefton, north of Liverpool, is another important development in our understanding of a way of life that began to disappear about 6000 years ago with the introduction of farming into Britain.
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A lovely tranquil spot. The only bench at this pond. I sat here for 45 minutes for a coffee break and a rest at lunchtime on the first Saturday in June and only one couple passed by. Beautiful.
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Martin Mere was formed at the end of the last ice age, when water filled a depression in the glacial drift. Since then its size has varied as water levels have risen and fallen. The original giant lake can be seen on Christopher Saxton's map from 1579 and stretched from Rufford in the east, to Churchtown (then known as North Meols) in the west. To the north of the lake were the villages of Mere Brow and Holmeswood, the site of Holmeswood Hall, built by the Heskeths as a hunting lodge. South of the lake was the Scarisbrick Hall estate, Martin Hall and Tarlefarwood, now known as Tarlscough
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Martin Mere is a mere near Burscough, in Lancashire, England, on the West Lancashire Coastal Plain. The mere is a vast marsh, around grid reference SD 41 15 that was, until it was drained, the largest body of fresh water in England.
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Martin Mere was formed at the end of the last ice age, when water filled a depression in the glacial drift. Since then its size has varied as water levels have risen and fallen. The original giant lake can be seen on Christopher Saxton's map from 1579 and stretched from Rufford in the east, to Churchtown (then known as North Meols) in the west. To the north of the lake were the villages of Mere Brow and Holmeswood, the site of Holmeswood Hall, built by the Heskeths as a hunting lodge. South of the lake was the Scarisbrick Hall estate, Martin Hall and Tarlefarwood, now known as Tarlscough. The mere originally drained out in two places; at the western end the arm of the mere known as the Wyke drained into the Pool (or Old Pool) at what is now Crowland Street, Blowick, while at its eastern end it flowed into the river Douglas at Rufford. Active management of the mere began in 1692 when Thomas Fleetwood of Bank Hall cut a channel in an attempt to drain it.
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open 10 - 3 seven days a week, keep informed through twitter, link: https://twitter.com/twinlakescafe?lang=en
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around the lakes near Scarisbrick?
The area around Scarisbrick's lakes features a mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands. You can observe diverse flora and fauna, including frogs, water beetles, dragonflies, and various birds like owls and kestrels. Places like Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve and Platts Lane Lake are particularly rich in natural habitats.
Are there good opportunities for walking or hiking near the lakes?
Yes, the lakes near Scarisbrick offer various walking opportunities. Platts Lane Lake, for instance, is well-connected to an extensive network of public footpaths. For more structured routes, you can explore options like the 'Martin Mere Wetland Centre – The Farm Burscough loop' or the 'Scarisbrick Wayside Cross – Heatons Bridge loop'. You can find more details on these and other trails in the Hiking around Scarisbrick guide.
Which lakes are suitable for fishing near Scarisbrick?
Platts Lane Lake and Lathom Fisheries, both located in nearby Burscough, are excellent choices for fishing. Platts Lane Lake is popular for rod and line fishing, with day tickets available locally. Lathom Fisheries is a dedicated complex with four well-stocked course fishing lakes, catering to both match and day-ticket anglers.
Are there any family-friendly lake destinations in the area?
Absolutely. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a large wetland area managed for conservation, offering wildlife observation and ranger tours, making it great for families. Platts Lane Lake also provides a tranquil escape with picnic areas and opportunities for fishing, suitable for a family day out. The Twin Lakes Velo Café is also family-friendly, offering lake views and outdoor seating.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, the Twin Lakes Velo Café is a popular spot with lake views and outdoor seating, catering to cyclists and other visitors. Additionally, Martin Mere Wetland Centre has a small cafe and shop at its visitor centre.
What historical or cultural sites are associated with the lakes?
Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve is a significant historical site, featuring evidence of a nomadic stone-age settlement dating back 8,000 years. Martin Mere Wetland Centre also has a rich history, having been formed at the end of the last ice age and historically being the largest body of fresh water in England before drainage efforts began in the 17th century.
Are there any specific lakes known for wildlife observation?
Yes, Martin Mere Wetland Centre is specifically managed for the conservation of wild birds and animals, offering excellent opportunities for observation from hides or during ranger tours. Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve is also known for birdwatching, with frequent sightings of barn owls. Platts Lane Lake provides a sanctuary for local wildlife, including frogs, water beetles, dragonflies, and various woodland birds.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Scarisbrick?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for wildlife observation and outdoor activities like walking and picnicking, when the weather is generally milder. Fishing is popular year-round at Lathom Fisheries, and Platts Lane Lake is accessible from dawn until dusk. Winter offers a different, often tranquil, experience for walks.
Are there any accessible paths for wheelchairs or strollers near the lakes?
While specific details on wheelchair accessibility for all paths are not extensively documented, Martin Mere Wetland Centre, as a managed visitor attraction, typically offers accessible facilities and paths. Lathom Fisheries also provides a toilet block with disabled facilities, suggesting some level of accessibility on site.
Are dogs allowed on walks around the lakes?
Many public footpaths and natural areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific site regulations. For example, nature reserves like Martin Mere Wetland Centre may have restrictions or require dogs to be on leads to protect wildlife. Always ensure your dog is under control and clean up after them.
Where can I park when visiting the lakes?
Platts Lane Lake offers car parking facilities for visitors. Lathom Fisheries also has a large car park. For other locations like Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve, a free car park is available, with donations welcomed.
What cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The area around Scarisbrick offers several road cycling routes. You can find options like the 'Lancashire Cycleway Ormskirk Loop' or the 'Old Tram Bridge – Martin Mere Wetland Centre loop'. The Road Cycling Routes around Scarisbrick guide provides more details on these and other routes.
Most popular attractions around Scarisbrick
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