What's here? at Fairhaven Lake
Available on site
Parking is available close to the reserve on Inner Promenade and at both ends of Fairhaven Lake at Stanner Bank and St Paul’s car parks. These car parks are available 24 hours.
They are run by Fylde Council. Head to their website for car park cost information. There are also three electric vehicle charging points on Inner Promenade.
We don't have our own toilets, but there are others very close by, next to Fairhaven Lake, 50 metres from the Fairhaven Lake Visitor Centre.
We don't have our own baby changing facilities, but there are others which are situated very close by, next to Fairhaven Lake.
The level, circular walk around Fairhaven Lake, and the smooth route along the newly refurbished sea wall are the perfect place for a stroll with a pushchair. Spot ducks and geese on Fairhaven Lake and take in the stunning views across the Ribble Estuary and the fresh sea air as you go.
The route around Fairhaven Lake is smooth and level tarmac suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
We don't have our own toilets, but there are others very close by, next to Fairhaven Lake.
Our visitor centre and shop are housed on the edge of Fairhaven Lake, in the picturesque Victorian Pagoda building, constructed in 1901.
Thanks to our partnership with Fylde Borough Council and major funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, we had a major renovation 2021.
In our visitor centre you'll find fun and interactive displays, as well as daily activities and assistance from our friendly team of staff and volunteers.
We'll help you to discover more about the wonderful wildlife of the Ribble Estuary and the fantastic new facilities to explore around Fairhaven Lake.
The visitor centre and shop are on one level with no steps. A gently sloping ramp leads down to Fairhaven Lake right next to the Fairhaven Lake Visitor Centre.
You can find a selection of hot and cold drinks alongside sweet and savoury snacks at the visitor centre.
Binoculars are available to hire daily, to be returned by closing time.
Along the trails there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy views of Fairhaven Lake and the beautiful landscape and wildlife of the Ribble Estuary.
One of the best ways to see the reserve is to take the circular route round the lake. It starts right outside the visitor centre. The route is smooth and level tarmac suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Look out an array of brilliant ducks, geese and other birds as you wander. See if you can spot all the sculptures on the wing sculpture trail, they’re dotted all around the lake.
Just opposite us, you can take a stroll along the newly refurbished, impressive sea wall, which offers panoramic views of the Ribble Estuary and the special wildlife that calls it home.
There are plenty of seating areas along the prom too, ideal for gazing outwards with a pair of binoculars. Or, pause a moment to take in the peace and quiet of the Japanese Garden – the planting here attracts lots of different insects and butterflies.
We are excited that our shop has undergone a huge makeover, it’s bigger, brighter and better than before. We are open daily, and our friendly team are on hand to serve and advise you.
Not available on site
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.
Restrictions
Dogs on leads are welcome at Fairhaven Lake Visitor Centre. Please keep your dog on a short lead and under control at all times.
For more information on where you can walk dogs around Fairhaven Lake, and where leads are required, head to Fylde Council's webpage.
Thank you for protecting the special wildlife here by keeping your dog on a lead and under control.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.