RSPB Dearne Valley – Old Moor Review For Families

We’ve visited RSPB Old Moor a few times now, and it’s firmly cemented itself as one of our favourite family-friendly nature spots in South Yorkshire. It’s the kind of place that ticks all the boxes: open space for the kids to run wild, engaging activities like pond dipping and birdwatching, a nice, welcoming café, and genuinely peaceful views across the wetlands. We usually spend about 3–4 hours here, and could easily stretch it longer on a warm day.

Where is it located?

You’ll find RSPB Dearne Valley – Old Moor just off Old Moor Lane in Wombwell, near Barnsley. It feels like quite an odd location as it’s surrounded by industrial estates; however, bear with it.

It’s tucked away next to the Trans Pennine Trail, so while bikes aren’t allowed inside the reserve itself, it connects perfectly for those who fancy cycling in and parking up. There are plenty of bike racks outside the entrance.

For sat-navs, S73 0YF is the best postcode to utilise.

History of Dearne Valley – Old Moor

It’s hard to believe, but this peaceful haven was once part of the old industrial coal mining landscape of the Dearne Valley. Over the years, the area was transformed, with the RSPB stepping in around 2003 to create a thriving wetland nature reserve. Now, it’s home to hundreds of species of birds, insects, and other wildlife – and offers families a brilliant chance to reconnect with nature in an accessible location. It’s amazing to see the transformation possible with the old industrial coal mines when there’s will. 

What is there to do?

We’ve tried most of the activities here over the years, and the kids always come away muddy, happy and having enjoyed a wonderful family day out. Best of all, it’s never too busy. Of all the occasions we’ve been, it’s quite relaxed and access to everything has been possible. 

Pond Dipping Adventures

This is hands-down one of our favourite bits. You can hire a net, a tray and an ID guide from the visitor centre, then head off to one of the designated dipping spots. Barney was fascinated the first time he scooped up a wriggling water beetle, and Matilda always enjoys the natural fun of pond dipping too. The water’s teeming with life – we’ve spotted tadpoles, dragonfly nymphs and even tiny leeches.

Top tip: The kits are available between April and October, and it’s only a few quid. Well worth it for an hour of focused, educational fun.

Bird Watching/listening:

We’ll be honest – we never thought birdwatching would be a hit with our two, as they are actually quite energetic and the idea of sitting quietly is perhaps not in their wheelhouse. We were wrong though!.

We are big fans of the app Merlin, which helps you identify birds from their calls. With the Merlin Bird ID app running in the background, it’s become a bit of a game. You just point your phone, and it listens and identifies what’s nearby. It’s strangely addictive. We’ve logged everything from a Common Buzzard, Kingfisher, Reed Warbler and many more. The hides are thoughtfully designed, with enough space for kids to peek through and feel part of it.

Play Areas Galore

This isn’t just a token swing and a slide situation; Old Moor has proper play value. There’s a main playground near the visitor centre with all the staples (climbing frames, slides, spinning dishes), but the real gems are the natural play zones scattered around the reserve.

You’ll find wooden bridges to wobble across, sandy areas with water play features, and loads of nature-inspired climbing structures. They are all hugely fun and keep the little ones walking and their engagement levels high. 

Picnics, Ice Cream and Chill Spots

Benches are dotted generously around the whole reserve, so if the kids are flagging, you’re never far from a rest point. We usually bring a picnic, but always promise an ice cream as motivation for the final loop. Leading just off the Cafe, there’s a huge outdoor terrace upstairs too, with fab views over the marshes. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy your ice cream. 

Facilities

Café and Shop

The café upstairs is genuinely lovely, light, clean and with big windows overlooking the reserve. They serve hot and cold meals, jacket potatoes, toasties, soup, and plenty of child-friendly snacks. They usually have vegan, veggie and gluten-free options too. There’s also outdoor seating if the sun’s out. We sit outside, whatever the weather, to be honest and enjoy our ice creams. Our kids always want an Ice Cream. It doesn’t matter if it’s January or June. 

The shop downstairs is surprisingly tempting. Think bird feeders, bug hotels, nature books, and loads of high-quality binoculars for sale.. You can even hire a pair for the day for around £5 at the time of writing, which is a good touch for any budding birdwatcher. 

Toilets and Baby Changing

There are good toilet facilities, including accessible loos, baby changing, and a fully-equipped Changing Places toilet with a hoist if needed. Everything’s ground floor and easy to access.

Bike Racks and Trail Links

While you can’t take bikes inside the reserve (to protect the wildlife), there are multiple bike racks near the entrance. If you’re doing the Trans Pennine Trail, Old Moor makes a brilliant pitstop, or a final destination if you’ve come from the Wakefield side of the Trans Pennine Trail, where we live. 

Would You Recommend It?

Without hesitation – yes.

We love it because it blends quiet nature time with enough hands-on fun to keep everyone happy. It’s easy-going, not too expensive, and has that rare ability to appeal to both younger kids and older ones. Plus, it sparks curiosity without feeling overly “educational.”. It’s also always relatively quiet, which is nice. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a café?

Yes! It’s upstairs, with loads of seating, reserve views, and a mix of hot meals, snacks, drinks and ice cream.

What’s your favourite part?

Pond dipping is always the winner, especially for Barney. But the natural play areas come a very close second. To be honest, we enjoy the variety within the day, but those two are our standout favourites. 

Is it suitable for dog walkers?

Only the courtyard area is dog-friendly. Dogs aren’t allowed into the main reserve (except assistance dogs), which helps protect the wildlife.

How much is it?

• Free for RSPB members
  
• Non-members: £5 per adult, £2.50 per child (under 5s go free; first child per family is also free)
  
• Parking is included.
  

Are there bike trails?

You can’t cycle inside, but it links directly to the Trans Pennine Trail. Park your bike at the racks and wander in. 

Is there suitable parking?

Yes, the car park is big (250+ spaces), includes blue badge bays, and a drop-off point near the visitor centre. 

Final Thoughts

RSPB Old Moor really is a little gem in the Dearne Valley. Whether you’re there for an adventure, a learning opportunity, or just a bit of quiet nature time with a picnic, it delivers. It’s affordable, accessible, and offers so much more than a typical playground day out.

We’ll definitely be back, and next time, we might cycle part of the Trans Pennine Trail to make a full day of it.

Pros & Cons

Enjoyment Rating

Last Updated on June 16, 2025 by Ryan