Natural England - Humberhead Peatlands NNR

Humberhead Peatlands NNR

The moors are remnants of wetland that occupied the floodplain of the Humberhead Levels thousands of years ago.

Humberhead Peatlands NNR

Where: South Yorkshire 

Main habitats: Peatland

Why visit: The Humberhead Peatlands NNR comprises Thorne, Goole, and Crowleexternal link Moors, as well as Hatfield Moors and it represents the largest area of raised bog wilderness in lowland Britain at 2,887 hectares in size. The site is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for its habitat. and an internationally important breeding site for the nocturnal, insect-feeding nightjar which was responsible for the area being declared as a Special Protection Area (SPA) under the European Birds Directive.

Natural England's aims are to establish the Moors as centres of peatland excellence and to provide visitor facilities to match that aspiration.

Star species: A wide range of habitats supports the 5,000 species of plants and animals that have been recorded on the Reserve of which more than 4000 are insects.

There is a sizable population of adders on the Moors, best sighted at the start of the warmer Spring weather which tempts them out from their winter slumber.

More than 200 bird species have been recorded and approximately 75 have bred. Winter visitors include whooper swans, pink-footed geese and short-eared owls. From March-July a very special summer visitor is the diminutive woodlark and oystercatcher, lapwing, ringed plover and great crested grebe can be spotted around the lakes.

Further information

Leaflets are available on site at main access points along with interpretation and maps of the extensive way-marked walks available for new visitors.

The nearest toilet facilities are at Hatfield Moor (including disabled).

The site holds a number of guided walks and family events throughout the year and details can be found in the Yorkshire and the Humber events pages. Bookings should be made with the Community Support Officer on 07766 420290.

There are also opportunities to become an NNR volunteer; details are available from the Community Support Officer (see above).