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Bury's best birdwatching site, but due to fishing, sailing and dogwalkers most birds are easily disturbed and early morning is the only feasible time to find waders on the west shore - the best site is opposite the farm. The creek, also on the west side, can also have interest, and it is hoped to create a nature reserve on land nearby soon. To the south, Withins Reservoir has occasional interest, and to the north ponds in The Dip have an attractive habitat for migrant passerines. Recent rarities include Red-crested Pochard, Red-throated Diver, Firecrest.

Access: from A58 look carefully for sign indicating Elton Reservoir, almost opposite Wellington Barracks - turn onto Kitchener Street. At bottom, turn right, then left across bridge, turning sharp right to avoid Florence Nightingale Hospital entrance. Follow track to car park just outside sailing club entrance. Not really suitable for disabled access; no facilities.

This large shallow reservoir lies in a gentle depression on the west side of Bolton and despite its proximity to a large housing area is surprisingly infrequented. Two islands created by Lancashire Wildlife Trust allow Oystercatchers and Little Ringed Plovers to breed, with Common Terns recently successful. The surrounding farmland is sympathetically managed, encouraging Redshank and Snipe. Depending on water levels, exposed mud attracts passage waders. Tufted Duck and both grebes breed, and recent rarities include Pectoral Sandpiper, Little Egret and Purple Sandpiper. Morning visits are best when the sun is behind you.

Access is from the A58 ring road, Beaumont Road (ample parking) where there is a not-too-obvious stile on the crown of the slight hill, on the south side of the lights halfway along. Not suitable for disabled access.

A beautiful woodland rich in wildlife, it has been officially designated as a Local Nature Reserve. There are a series of footpaths for pedestrians only.

Location : Borsdane Wood, Hindley Mill Lane, Hindley, Wigan.