Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Marshside
SouthportOpenSee opening timesThere's something for everyone all year round at this delightful coastal reserve. Explore wildlife from the hide, viewing platform and screens.
About
This fantastic wetland site is located north of Southport town centre and has some of the best wildlife in the region, with amazing year round viewing opportunities. We have three fantastic trails to follow here, which take you past saltmarsh, pools and right into the estuary itself.
In the summer, you'll spot nesting birds like Avocets and Lapwings, which nest on the islands. Look out for feisty Lapwings chasing predators that come too close to their nests in the spring.
In winter, the skies fill with Pink-footed Geese and Wigeons. On the arrival of a Kestrel or a Peregrine, huge flocks of Golden Plovers, Wigeons and Lapwings rise up, panicking at the predator's arrival.
At a glance
Autumn/Winter opening hours: 8.30am-4pm (1 November-1 March)
Spring/Summer opening hours: 8.30am-5pm (2 March-31 October).
The car park is closed and locked outside of these hours.
RSPB car park charges: £1.50 Up to 2 hours / £3.00 Over 2 hours.
RSPB Members and Blue Badge holders park for free.
Uneven ground. Unmarked spaces. No height restriction barrier. No lighting in car park. No overnight parking or camping. Access to reserve via toucan crossing over Marine Drive. Lighting by crossing.
Car park not suitable for coaches and buses. Please call us on 01704 211690 for coach/bus parking information. Bicycle racks available outside Sandgrounders' hide.
Our portable toilet is open daily, in line with our seasonal opening times. It is located outside Sandgrounders' hide.
There are no baby changing facilities, electricity or running water here. The Nearest public toilets are around 2 miles away in Southport or Hesketh.
Please see the 'Nature Trails' section for access information.
Please see the 'Nature Trails' section for access information.
Our portable toilet is open daily, in line with our seasonal opening times. It is located outside Sandgrounders' hide.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the site at any time.
Dogs are welcome on the reserve, but must be kept on leads. Assistance dogs only in hides.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Marshside
Ribble.reserves@rspb.org.uk Marshside, Southport, Sefton, PR9 9PJ 01704 211690