A lovely way to spend time outdoors with the kids, here are some nearby nature reserves – some are free too, so it makes for a cheap, easy family day out.
Potteric Carr, Mallard Way, Doncaster, DN4 8DB
Fully accessible nature paths through stunning, safe wetland habitat. Pockets of woodland and wildflower meadows.
The ponds provide a home for newts, frogs and whirligig beetles. The meadows during summer are full of butterflies and abuzz with insects on warm afternoons.
There is a visitor centre and plenty of parking available.
Sprotbrough Flash, Sprotbrough, Doncaster, DN5 7NB
Situated on the left bank of the River Don, you can park just off the road on Nursery Lane, next to the river and walk along the towpath to the nature reserve. The towpath is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Open at all times, free of charge.
Thorpe Marsh Nature Reserve, Fordstead Lane, Doncaster, DN5 0LN
Enjoy a peaceful walk around Thorpe Marsh Nature Reserve with hedgerows, ponds, lakes and small woodlands.
Open at all times, free of charge
Denaby Ings Nature Reserve, Pastures Road, Mexborough, S64 0JJ
A mix of habitats, open water and riverside water meadows, woodland, hedgerows. Within easy reach of Denaby and Mexbrorough. You might see Kingfishers, goosander and orchids. There are also cattle grazing and sheep in the meadows.
A footpath around the lake passes two bird hides and a viewing screen to look over the lake.
Car parking available on Pastures Road. Open at all times, free of charge.
RSPB Dearne Valley – Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Wombwell, Bolton Upon Dearne, Barnsley, S73 0YF
A year round accessible place to see wildlife, with lovely walks and an adventure playground. There are a wide range of habitats including reedbeds, lakes, hedgerows, meadowns and wet grassland. You might see a Kingfisher, Barn Owl, Bittern or Avocet. See a review of the Toddler Trail by a Mumbler here.
More Nature Reserves nearby:
Hatfield Moors (Humberhead Peatlands Hatfield, Thorne, Crowle and Goole Moors)
Dearne Valley – Adwick Washland,
Idle Valley, North Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 8RQ
Kingsway Local Nature Reserve, Scunthorpe, DN15 7HU
Rother Valley Country Park, Mansfield Road, Wales Bar, Sheffield, S26 5PQ
Donna Nook Nature Reserve (Grey Seals visit every November and December to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes.
See what you can spot along the way!