Situated on the scenic north shore of the Solway coast, RSPB Mersehead is an extensive wetland and saltmarsh area, a haven for breeding waders, wintering waterfowl and year-round bird and wildlife-watching. Family friendly, with lots of activities.
Discover the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of wetlands and coast in one of Scotland’s National Scenic Areas. Stroll along the nature trails and use the viewing hides to explore at your own pace. Hot drinks and ice cream are available in the visitor centre, where you can view sparrows, finches and buntings like yellowhammer and reed bunting visit a feeding station.
Family activities and events are available all year round. The visitor centre is open all year round (10am to 5pm in summer, 10am to 4pm winter) with hides and trails open from dawn to dusk. For information about events on this reserve, check rspb.org.uk/events.
Spring is particularly magical, when the wet meadows fill with lapwings and skylarks, not to mention butterflies and wild flowers. The coastal walk follows an idyllic shoreline with sand dunes and a large, tidal sand flat. You might also see a roe deer or very rare natterjack toads. In autumn, thousands of barnacle and pink-footed geese start to arrive for the winter, creating a not-to-be-missed spectacle.
This nature reserve is important for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) we would ask that you keep your dog close to you, preferably on a short lead and please clean up after your dog.
Holiday cottages
A pair of semi-detached cottages, Barnacle and Shelduck, are open on the reserve for bookings throughout the year. Both have two bedrooms, kitchen, lounge/dining room, bathroom, open fires, and easy access to the reserve's nature trails and beaches. For more information please visit rspb.org.uk/mersesead or contact the reserve.
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