Pennington Flash remains a popular nature destination

Pennington Flash, located near Leigh and Warrington, remains a popular destination for families, walkers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The site is part of The Flashes of Wigan and Leigh, a group of eight wetland sites that was designated as Greater Manchester’s first and only National Nature Reserve by Natural England in 2022.

Originally formed by flooding former coal mining sites, the wetlands now support diverse wildlife, including the willow tit, which is the UK’s most endangered small bird. The park features walking and cycling trails, bird hides, an adventure playground, and information boards for nature identification.

Visitors should be aware that The Hide Coffee House is scheduled to close temporarily for several months to undergo renovations, which include the construction of an extension.