Old Moor and the Dearne Valley (Day Trip)

Tour Code: GBR186

A day exploring the nationally important chain of wetland sites in the Dearne Valley, centered around RSPB Old Moor.

1 days from
£60
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Highlights

Summary

Summary

The Dearne Valley deserves to be far better known than it is! What was once the most polluted ex-industrial site in Western Europe is now a nationally important chain of wetland sites, centred around RSPB Old Moor nature reserve. Join Matthew Capper to spend the day exploring this area's fascinating past and wildlife-filled present. Matthew was Site Manager at RSPB Old Moor for 10 years and knows the history, management and wildlife like the back of his hand. During our day's exploration a wide variety of species can be expected. Bittern, Bearded Tit and Marsh Harrier are now resident and there will be a range of wildfowl and other waterbirds on offer. Both Barn Owl and Little Owl are frequently encountered. We may choose to spend most of the day at Old Moor, though there is the option to visit one of the other nearby reserves if time allows. Entry to Old Moor is free for RSPB members and £5 for non-members (not included in the cost of the Day Trip). All paths are flat and easily accessible, and we will cover around 2-3 miles, depending on which sites we visit, at a gentle pace. 

  • Look for Bearded Tit, Bittern and Kingfisher in the reedbeds
  • Several orchid species in the summer
  • Breeding Avocet and Marsh Harrier
  • Great range of passage waders in the spring and especially the autumn
  • Range of breeding and wintering wildfowl
Day Trip Location

Day Trip Location

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Dates & Prices

Dates & Prices

2025

Departures Availability Cost
Fri 18th Apr – Fri 18th Apr SPACES £60
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Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£60
Tour Leader:
Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary
Matthew Capper
Matthew Capper 001

Tour Leader: Matthew Capper

Matthew was born in Stamford and grew up with Rutland Water on his doorstep, where he volunteered during his teenage years and developed his lifelong interest in birds and other wildlife. After a Geography degree at Sheffield University, he settled in the Peak District and was soon involved in bird of prey protection, the National Park Ranger Service and the local birding scene. Matthew began working for the RSPB in 2006 and managed projects across the north of England, spent time as an Area Conservation Manager and 10 years as Senior Site Manager at RSPB Old Moor in Yorkshire. Passionate about connecting people with nature, he has led walks, activities and delivered talks for many different organisations. Having previously served on the board of trustees, Matthew became the Head of Public Engagement and Communications for the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust in 2019. 

Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

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Why Naturetrek?

Why Naturetrek?

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