As well as these there are extensive grounds and lakes, plenty of room for football and running around, plus a children's adventure play area. The Bird Oasis has twice won the Britain in Bloom Award for the Best Small Tourist Attraction in the North West. The pleasant combination of pools, waterfalls, paths and gardens make an attractive haven for birds and visitors alike. Leighton Moss is the largest reedbed in the North West of England. Several rare species of birds breed in the reeds, notably bittern, marsh harrier, water rail, bearded tit, shoveler and pochard.
Marsh harriers are summer visitors but the others are present all year.
Around 75 species of birds breed on the nature reserve and large duck flocks are present during the winter months, usually on the open water. There are seven birdwatching hides. Free car parking Visit Martin Mere and come into close contact with wetlands and their wildlife. You can get close enough to feed some of the birds straight from your hand. Special events and exhibitions help to give an insight into the wonder of wetlands and the vital need for their conservation.