Sorry, forgot to include figures for nov/dec. Conwy usually is very productive if one doesn't mind the journey with a chance of firecrest too, but Leighton moss always tops in my records at anytime of year with 62 from last year on the 10th of December (was a record for that time from a regular 50). Ta.

I couldn't help but stumble across this section so I thought I'd mention a recomendation for Leighton moss if thats ok, please. A Fantastic reserve at anytime of year, both spring in april/may and September are by far the best months to visit. I've been going since 2002 and seen upto 72 species in one day during spring and 67 in September. Train direct from bolton takes an hour and you get 10% discount in the cafe. Marshside is more tricky as its more depends on how dry the summers are and the tide asto how good autumn is. Personally, april (with a max of about 50 species found) seems most productive in my experience, but thats just me, Enjoy!!!

Takes me about 1 hour to get to Old Moor from Rochdale. It is my favourite RSPB site. Well worth a trip at this time of the year just to see the Golden Plover. Decent cafe too. It gets very busy on Sundays but is a big site and never feels over crowed.

It takes me about 1 hour 45 mins to get to Blacktoft Sands. There is always an abundance of Marsh Harriers and this time last year a Hen harrier was turning up every evening. The site facilities are limitted but there is a decent pub not far away that does Sunday lunches. The warden put me onto it the last time I was there.

Been to Leighton Moss today took just under an hour. Five otters showing during the day and lots of red deer. Couple of Marsh Harriers and a wide variety of other birds. I counted twenty seven species without really trying. Decent cafe but again gets very busy on a Sunday. Doesnt seem to absorb the crowds well so always seems crowded to me. Still well worth a visit.

Marshside near Southport is also well worth a visit and can be combined with a trip to Outer Hesketh and the Marina. Facilities are basic but great for birds. Free entry so will save you using your guest card.

Regards

Dave

I'd vote for Leighton Moss...I visited earlier this week and Otters giving great views from Public Hide

Old Moor RSPB, near Barnsley, is also well worth a visit. Spectacular flocks of Lapwing and Golden Plover at this time of year and the best place I know for Tree Sparrows.

And a top-notch cafe

Another vote for Leighton Moss from me too. Although I believe Blacktoft Sands is equally impressive and might be do-able in 2hrs from Manchester.

A little closer to home you could try Burton Mere Wetlands, usually plenty to see from the comfort of the reception hide where hot drinks are available

Then, if you have time you could go on a little further down the road to Parkgate to have a look over the marsh.

You can't really go wrong with Leighton Moss. Always plenty to see on the reserve and has a nice cafe as well.

I've found a willing volunteer (and driver!) to use the free entry for a guest which came with my RSPB membership. I'm hoping to get out a little further afield than usual (we're Manchester based), perhaps 2 hours or thereabouts. What might be a good reserve to visit at this time of year? We would prefer a good variety of birds over one where we may make some unusual sightings but have long periods of nothing, as my guest is quite new to birding. Though a little sighting of interest is always nice