Top 5 Lakes around North Meols
Best lakes around North Meols are found in a region historically characterized by extensive marshlands, including the significant Martin Mere. While large natural lakes are not prominent within the modern civil parish boundaries, the area offers notable water bodies with historical connections. These locations provide opportunities for nature observation, walking, and family activities. The landscape combines historical significance with managed natural environments.
Best lakes around North Meols
- The most popular lakes is Martin Mere Wetland Centre, a lake that…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Martin Mere Wetland Centre
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Fairhaven Lake and Spitfire Memorial
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Fairhaven Lake
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Bench at Pinfold Path Pond
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Twin Lakes Velo Café
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Fairhaven Lake is an extremely popular destination and offers a choice of boat rides, a snack or meal by the waterside, bird watching, nature walks, tennis, bowling, adventure playground, an eighteen hole adventure golf course, and a Spitfire memorial.
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A lovely tranquil spot. The only bench at this pond. I sat here for 45 minutes for a coffee break and a rest at lunchtime on the first Saturday in June and only one couple passed by. Beautiful.
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Martin Mere was formed at the end of the last ice age, when water filled a depression in the glacial drift. Since then its size has varied as water levels have risen and fallen. The original giant lake can be seen on Christopher Saxton's map from 1579 and stretched from Rufford in the east, to Churchtown (then known as North Meols) in the west. To the north of the lake were the villages of Mere Brow and Holmeswood, the site of Holmeswood Hall, built by the Heskeths as a hunting lodge. South of the lake was the Scarisbrick Hall estate, Martin Hall and Tarlefarwood, now known as Tarlscough
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Martin Mere is a mere near Burscough, in Lancashire, England, on the West Lancashire Coastal Plain. The mere is a vast marsh, around grid reference SD 41 15 that was, until it was drained, the largest body of fresh water in England.
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Martin Mere was formed at the end of the last ice age, when water filled a depression in the glacial drift. Since then its size has varied as water levels have risen and fallen. The original giant lake can be seen on Christopher Saxton's map from 1579 and stretched from Rufford in the east, to Churchtown (then known as North Meols) in the west. To the north of the lake were the villages of Mere Brow and Holmeswood, the site of Holmeswood Hall, built by the Heskeths as a hunting lodge. South of the lake was the Scarisbrick Hall estate, Martin Hall and Tarlefarwood, now known as Tarlscough. The mere originally drained out in two places; at the western end the arm of the mere known as the Wyke drained into the Pool (or Old Pool) at what is now Crowland Street, Blowick, while at its eastern end it flowed into the river Douglas at Rufford. Active management of the mere began in 1692 when Thomas Fleetwood of Bank Hall cut a channel in an attempt to drain it.
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Where the River Ribble meets the Irish Sea, Fairhaven Lake is a popular spot with families. The region's RAF connections are underlined by a tremendous Spitfire memorial. An exact replica of a Submarine Spitfire fighter plane is thrust aloft on a supporting pole and plinth. The footpath on the seaward side makes for a lovely little stroll and a great place to spot the estuary's waders. North Wales is also visible on clear days, whilst there are plenty of spectacular sunsets throughout the year.
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open 10 - 3 seven days a week, keep informed through twitter, link: https://twitter.com/twinlakescafe?lang=en
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Smashing Road ride past Martin Mere on a new on a nice quiet road
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and wildlife can I expect to see around North Meols' lakes?
The region is rich in wetland habitats. At Martin Mere Wetland Centre, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, you can observe thousands of migrant wild ducks, geese, waders, and swans, especially in winter. It also houses a living collection of over 70 wetland species, including otters, flamingos, and rare Hawaiian geese. Fairhaven Lake is excellent for bird watching, particularly waders in the Ribble estuary.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near North Meols?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Martin Mere Wetland Centre provides canoe safaris, adventure play areas, and pond dipping. Fairhaven Lake features boat rides, an adventure playground, and an eighteen-hole adventure golf course. Hesketh Park in Southport, with its lake, also has a children's play area and crazy golf.
What historical significance do the lakes in the North Meols area hold?
The area historically encompassed extensive marshlands, with Martin Mere once being the largest body of freshwater in England before extensive drainage in the 19th century. Its historical extent stretched from Rufford to Churchtown (North Meols). Hesketh Park's lake in Southport is part of a Victorian park, with the land donated by the Rev Charles Hesketh of Meols Hall, linking it directly to the area's heritage.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. Hesketh Park in Southport has a cafe. At Martin Mere Wetland Centre, there is a small cafe and shop at the visitor centre. Fairhaven Lake offers opportunities for a snack or meal by the waterside. Additionally, the Twin Lakes Velo Café provides lake views and outdoor seating, catering especially to cyclists.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking around the lakes?
Yes, the lakes offer various walking opportunities. Hesketh Park provides nature trails for leisurely strolls. Martin Mere Wetland Centre has numerous nature trails and observation hides. For more extensive walks, you can explore easy hikes around North Meols, including routes near the Ribble Estuary.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The area around North Meols offers various cycling routes. You can find several road cycling routes, such as the Green Lane (NCN 91) loop from Tarleton or routes exploring Southport Pier and Marine Drive. The Twin Lakes Velo Café is a popular stop for cyclists.
Are the lakes and parks in the North Meols area dog-friendly?
Hesketh Park in Southport, which features a prominent lake, is dog-friendly, though dogs must be kept on a lead. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific regulations, especially for nature reserves like Martin Mere Wetland Centre where wildlife conservation is a priority.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around North Meols?
The best time depends on your interests. For birdwatching, especially migrant wild ducks, geese, and swans, visiting Martin Mere Wetland Centre during winter offers spectacular displays. For leisurely strolls and enjoying the Victorian gardens at Hesketh Park or recreational activities at Fairhaven Lake, spring and summer provide pleasant weather.
Are there any running trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are running trails in the wider North Meols area. You can explore various running trails, including routes around the RSPB Marshside Nature Reserve or towards the Fernley Observatory, offering diverse distances and difficulties.
What kind of views can I expect from the lakes?
From Fairhaven Lake and Spitfire Memorial, you can enjoy views of the Ribble estuary, and on clear days, even North Wales. The lake at Hesketh Park offers picturesque views within its beautifully maintained Victorian landscape. Twin Lakes Velo Café also provides pleasant views over the water.
Is there public transport available to reach the lakes?
While specific public transport details for each lake are best checked locally, Southport, where Hesketh Park is located, is well-served by public transport. For Martin Mere Wetland Centre, it's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date travel information.
What makes the Lake at Hesketh Park a unique visit?
The Lake at Hesketh Park, located in Southport, is the central feature of a beautifully restored Victorian park. It includes a small island specifically created for wild birds to live and breed. The park itself boasts ornate fountains, themed gardens like The American Garden, and a historical astronomical observatory, offering a blend of nature, history, and family-friendly facilities.
Most popular attractions around North Meols
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