Tucked away in the heart of industrial South Yorkshire, Blackburn Meadows is a tranquil haven for birds, butterflies, walkers and picnickers.

The meadows, which teem with summer butterflies, surround two freshwater lakes which attract a huge variety of birds including native swans, moorhens and coots, as well as migrants like widgeon, teal and willow warbler. Herons and kingfishers also visit from time to time – and in fact, over 140 species of bird have been sighted here!

Blackburn Meadows is on the site of the former Tinsley Sewage Farm, and was taken over by local bird lovers when the management changed and the lagoons started drying up.  It is now managed by a consortium of eight partners, including the Wildlife Trust. 

How to get there

By foot or bike
Cycle or walk along the Sheffield Tinsley Canal from central Sheffield or Meadowhall.

By public transport
Bus numbers 69 and X78 which run between Sheffield, Meadowhall and Rotherham stop nearby, and both trams and trains run to Meadowhall.  Phone Travelline 01700 515151 for more details.

By car
Parking is limited, but an extra car park can be opened by prior arrangement.  Phone 0114 263 4335.

• Parking

• Wetland