Anglezarke Moor (part of the West Pennine Moors Site of Special Scientific Interest) Adventures

Anglezarke Moor is situated in Lancashire, England, and forms a key section of the West Pennine Moors Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Characterized by expansive heather-covered moorland, peat bogs, and upland grassland, the area supports a variety of rare plant and animal species typical of upland habitats in Northern England. The moor is interspersed with small reservoirs such as the Anglezarke Reservoir and adjacent reservoirs that historically provided water to nearby urban areas. These waters serve as focal points for birdwatching and walking routes. The upland terrain features rolling hills, open skies, and panoramic views stretching towards the coast on clear days. Historically, the region played a role in early industrial water supply systems and contains archaeological remnants including old quarry sites and boundary markers dating back centuries. Established as part of the SSSI designation to protect its unique flora, fauna, and geological features, Anglezarke Moor attracts outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking, mountain biking along established trail networks, and wildlife observation, especially for upland birds such as curlew and red grouse. The area is also valued for quiet countryside retreats that offer a break from urban life. Visitors can explore a number of paths leading through heather moorlands and around reservoirs, with several connecting to the wider West Pennine Moors trails system. Its combination of natural beauty, ecological importance, and outdoor activity opportunities make Anglezarke Moor notable for conservation and recreation alike.