Walk on the wild side at one of the RSPB's Yorkshire nature reserves

The RSPB is Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity which works for the conservation of wild birds, other wildlife and the places in which they live in a wide variety of ways.

Experience the natural side of Yorkshire in the New Year with a visit to one of four RSPB nature reserves in the region. The nature reserves provide visitors with the unique opportunity to watch birds and discover wildlife in some of Yorkshire’s most natural surroundings. Ideal for a family day out or a peaceful way to get away from it all, choose from the majestic cliffs of the East Coast, to the tranquillity of a woodland walk.

RSPB Old Moor – A fantastic place to learn about the natural world. RSPB Old Moor offers a short trail, perfect for family strolls and a second trail offering spectacular views of birds all year round. The reserve, located near Barnsley in South Yorkshire also offers fantastic visitor facilities.

RSPB Bempton Cliffs – For an amazing wildlife spectacle with fantastic landscape views, Bempton Cliffs is a must see for any lover of wildlife and those visiting Yorkshire.

Located near Bridlington on the East Coast, Bempton is home to England’s largest seabird colony. Enjoy the cliff top trail with five different view points, breathtaking scenery and the incredible 200,000 seabirds. As the birds are primarily here for the breeding season, spring and summer are the best recommended times for visiting.

RSPB Fairburn Ings – For the ultimate family day out with pond dipping, regular fun events and walks for all to enjoy, this is the ideal place for adults and children to find out more about wildlife!

Choose from 3 trails on your visit, passing through a variety of habitats, the main trail, family trail and Lin Dyke trail provide many opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife and birds. Fairburn Ings is located close to Castleford, West Yorkshire.

A visit to these nature reserves can be made all year round and will provide a different experience every time you visit. Watch the seasons change and different wildlife, plants and flowers appear each time.

RSPB Blacktoft Sands – This exciting complex of habitats around the Humber Estuary is the largest tidal reedbed in England and is important for its breeding bearded tits, marsh harriers and bitterns. The rare saline lagoons at the reserve are an ideal habitat for a variety of breeding and migrant waders, including avocets.

Managed by the RSPB the reserve is home to over 270 species of bird, 60 of which have bred, as well as hundreds of species of rare and specialist insects. The grazing marsh is also important for wintering ducks and the willow scrub provides food and nest sites for tree sparrows and whitethroats.

There are six hides at the reserve to help you spot the birds in their natural habitats. The birds on the lagoon are clearly visible from these, ensuring you have a close view of the ducks and waders.

There are six guided walks throughout the reserve intended to introduce beginners to various warblers, waders and raptors.

For more information on any of the 4 Yorkshire nature reserves including events taking place and how to get there, please call 01484 861 148 or visit www.rspb.org.uk

Click here to discover more outdoor activities available in Yorkshire.