Far Ings National Nature Reserve

Site Description and Facilities

Westfield Lake

"Ings" is an old English word for the wet pastures to the west of Barton which, before embankment, were part of the Humber flood plain. Since Roman times the underlying clay has been used to make bricks and tiles.

In the late 19th century there were 15 brick and tile yards, as well as a cement works which also made use of the clay. Supplies of clay began to run out during the early 20th century when many yards were abandoned.

The clay workings soon filled with water and were colonised by reed and willow, forming a haven for many wildflowers, insects and birds. In 1983 the Lincolnshire Trust acquired the 100 acres of old pits which now form the Far Ings Nature Reserve.

The varied habitats support more than 230 species of wildflower, 50 nesting bird species, and a wealth of invertebrates including more than 250 species of moths.

SAM VAN DEN BOS

The site is dedicated as a memorial to Sam van den Bos (1929-1989) who was Chairman of the Trust's Barton Area Group and a leading conservationist in north Lincolnshire. It was his vision which led to the conversion of derelict farm buildings to create the first Visitor Centre (now the Trust Regional Office) and Warden's accommodation.

Visitor and Education Centre

The Visitor Centre and Bridge viewed across the reedbeds

Take time to relax and enjoy the striking panoramic view from the visitor centre. From here you can see the pits and reedbeds of the reserve, the estuary and Humber bridge, and both the Lincolnshire and Yorkshire Wolds. There is a chance of seeing the iconic birds of Far Ings: bittern, bearded tit and marsh harrier. Binoculars are provided, as well as images of many of the birds you may spot. Interpretive and interactive displays give you an insight into the natural and social history of Far Ings. A lift provides full access to the upper floor of the centre.

Browse in the gift shop for great gifts on a wildlife theme, greetings cards, soft toys, a selection of natural history books and a range of bird feeders and food. See the events pages for guided walks and children's activities.

At Far Ings there is a comprehensive range of formal and informal activities for all ages and abilities. Whether it's pond dipping for primary schools or A-level survey techniques we have something to suit your needs. See the education pages for more information.

Far Ings Visitor Centre

The new Far Ings Visitor and Education was opened in June 2007. The Centre, situated about one mile west of Barton-upon-Humber, was created with the help of a grant of £460,000 from Yorkshire Forward. It forms part of the South Humber Bank Heritage & Tourism Project; a large scale project aimed at regenerating a number of sites in North Lincolnshire and promoting our natural and built heritage sites.

The Regional Office and Warden's house at Ness End Farm were created by restoring derelict farm buildings and originally opened in 1991 as the first visitor centre for the reserve.

 

Visitor Centre - Summer Opening Times
Easter to end of October

• Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays and Bank Holidays from 10.00am until 4.00pm.
• Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 1.00pm until 4.00pm.

Please note: the centre is staffed by volunteers and, depending on their availability,
may occasionally be closed on Thursday and Friday afternoons.

 

Visitor Centre - Spring/Summer Opening Times (commencing 9 March 2011)

• Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays from 10.00am until 4.00pm.
• Wednesdays from 1.00pm until 4.00pm.
  May also open from 10.00am until 1.00pm if volunteers are available.
  Thursdays and Fridays from 1.00pm until 4.00pm if volunteers are available.

PLEASE NOTE

* Opening of the visitor centre is dependent on volunteers.

* We aim for the toilets to be open during daylight hours.

* The Visitor Centre is staffed seven days a week.

* For further information please contact the centre staff on 01652 637055.

* During very bad weather the visitor centre may close early.