Pennington Flash

Pennington Flash is a lake and country park in Leigh, near Wigan in Greater Manchester. The park covers roughly 200 hectares between Leigh and Lowton, with a lake of about 70 hectares at its heart. It is one of the best-loved walking and birdwatching spots in the area.

How did the lake form?

The Flash is not a natural lake. Around the turn of the 20th century the ground sank above old coal workings, mostly those of Bickershaw Colliery, and water filled the hollow. In north-west England these flooded dips are called "flashes". A landscape shaped by mining now serves as a nature reserve and a place for leisure.

What can you see?

Birds are the main draw, with more than 230 species recorded. In summer, great crested grebes, common terns, gadwall and little ringed plovers breed here, along with several warblers. Winter brings shoveler, teal, goldeneye and goosander onto the water. In 1994 the site hosted Britain's first Black-faced Bunting, a record that still sets it apart among birders.

A circular trail of about 2 km runs around the water and passes three bird hides. The main paths are wide and surfaced, so they work for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

What else is there to do?

• Angling from designated banks.
• Sailing and windsurfing, run by Leigh and Lowton Sailing Club.
• Horse riding in designated areas.
• A nine-hole municipal golf course.
• A children's play area, picnic spots and toilets.

How do you get there and where do you park?

The address is St Helens Road, Leigh, WN7 3PA. A pay-and-display car park sits next to the lake, and electric vehicle chargepoints have recently been added. For general information, parking and golf enquiries, go to the Visitor Information Point inside The Hide Coffee House. Wigan Council manages the park.

When is the best time to visit?

Winter suits waterfowl, and spring and autumn bring migrants. Summer is good for family walks, and on fair days sails dot the water. Opening hours of the information point change with the season.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? Entry to the park is open. You pay for parking by the lake and for a round of golf.

Is Pennington Flash wheelchair accessible? Yes. The main paths around the lake and to the key hides are wide and surfaced.

Can you fish here? Yes, from designated banks.

How long does the walk around the lake take? The loop is about 2 km, so allow one to two hours with stops at the hides.