Salthill Quarry Nature Reserve
Discover ancient fossils and unique geological formations at Salthill Quarry, a natural reserve perfect for family fossil hunts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for fossil hunting
Salthill Quarry Nature Reserve
Best Time
Ideal for fossil hunting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient fossils and unique geological formations at Salthill Quarry, a natural reserve perfect for family fossil hunts.
"Worth a visit as the only place I know in Lancashire where children can find fossils just lying in the ground."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails can get muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Good walking shoes are a must!
🔍 Look for Crinoids
Keep an eye out for small, ring-like fossils on the ground and in rocks – they're everywhere!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crinoid Fossil Discoveries
Rocky outcrops and ground
Unearth ancient crinoids, resembling worm rings, embedded in rocks and scattered on the ground. A thrilling find for all ages!
Limestone Cliff Face
Behind parking on Lincoln Way
Marvel at the impressive limestone cliff, a testament to the quarry's past. Look for fossils embedded directly in the rock face.
Sculpted Sea Creatures
Top of the grassy field
Discover artistic sculptures of crinoid sea creatures, offering a unique blend of art and natural history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fossil Hunting Fun
Trail Conditions & Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails can get muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Good walking shoes are a must!
🔍 Look for Crinoids
Keep an eye out for small, ring-like fossils on the ground and in rocks – they're everywhere!
🧭 Follow the QR Codes
Use the QR code waymarkers for information, but be aware the trail isn't always clearly marked.
💡 Bring a Magnifying Glass
Enhance your fossil discovery experience by bringing a small magnifying glass to examine the details.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails can get muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Good walking shoes are a must!
🔍 Look for Crinoids
Keep an eye out for small, ring-like fossils on the ground and in rocks – they're everywhere!
🧭 Follow the QR Codes
Use the QR code waymarkers for information, but be aware the trail isn't always clearly marked.
💡 Bring a Magnifying Glass
Enhance your fossil discovery experience by bringing a small magnifying glass to examine the details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Salthill Quarry as an excellent spot for fossil hunting, particularly for crinoids, making it a hit with children. The unique geological features and the chance to find ancient fossils are highlights. However, some find the surrounding industrial landscape less appealing, and trail navigation can occasionally be confusing.
"Worth a visit as the only place I know in Lancashire where children can find fossils just lying in the ground. The Nature Trail begins behind the limited parking on Lincoln Way, in front of the limestone cliff face. The trail is marked with QR code posts, 1 to 10, which provides more information but the route is otherwise not well marked. We took several wrong turnings. The trail lies either side of Lincoln Way and behind and to the side of the several industrial units there. The only interesting feature on the first part is a section of cliff up a few steps which allow a good view of the Crinoid fossils embedded in the rock. When the trail is about to open into a field, turn left past a dilapidated mosaic. Note the view of Pendle Hill through the trees. This path will eventually take you down to the busy road (where alternative parking beyond the double-yellow lines is available). Crossing the road carefully, climb the other side and pass a grassy embankment at the bottom corner of which is a placard with descriptions and the route marked. This will lead you to a larger sloping field of grass and Ricky outcrops. There’s a stone seating area at the top with some sculptures of the crinoid sea creatures (known as sea lilies) that were embedded in the mud of what used to be sea in this area! Near the rocks you will find small sections of crinoids just lying on the ground. They look rather like the rings on a worm’s body. The trail then leads upwards out of the field and alongside rock smoothed by glacier movement. The trail ends below, in front of a huge limestone cliff left behind by the former quarrying. Exit through the gate onto the roadway opposite the car park and starting point. It takes about an hour and can be muddy and slippery when wet. A good morning or afternoon visit. Children are excited to find and compare plant fossils that are millions of years old."
Moi Pixie
"All the actual rock appears to be fenced off... So unless you're a fan of scabby heathland, iron fencing and industrial estate this is a bit is a waste of time"
David Bates
"A great little walk and well signposted, good if your children are into dinosaurs, fossil hunting and anything millions of years old, there are crinoids all over the place to collect. We'll signposted with interactive waymarkers to tell you all about the geological features."
Anthony Cain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary parking is limited on Lincoln Way. Some visitors have noted alternative parking beyond double yellow lines on the busy road. Be cautious when crossing this road.
Parking is available on Lincoln Way, but it is described as limited. Some visitors have found alternative parking spots nearby.
Information on public transport access is not widely available, but given the location near industrial units, driving is likely the most convenient option.
The trails are marked with QR code posts (1-10). However, some visitors have reported taking wrong turnings, so pay attention to your surroundings.
The nature trail is primarily for walking and fossil hunting. Cycling may not be suitable due to the terrain and narrow paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Salthill Quarry Nature Reserve is generally accessible without an entrance fee, making it a free natural attraction for visitors.
As a nature reserve, Salthill Quarry is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day for safety and visibility.
No, there is no admission fee to enter Salthill Quarry Nature Reserve. It's a free public space for exploration.
While there are no strict opening hours, it's recommended to visit during daylight for safety and to best enjoy the natural features and fossil hunting opportunities.
The main concern is respecting the natural environment. Some areas might be fenced off, and visitors should stay on marked paths where possible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Salthill Quarry is famous for crinoids, which are ancient marine invertebrates. You can find them embedded in rocks and scattered on the ground. +1
Yes, it's excellent for children interested in fossils and natural history. They can enjoy the thrill of finding their own ancient treasures. +1
The nature trail typically takes about an hour to complete, offering a good balance of exploration and manageable walking time.
The terrain can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Expect rocky outcrops and grassy fields. Sturdy footwear is essential.
Information on facilities like restrooms is not readily available. It's advisable to come prepared and use facilities elsewhere before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the impressive limestone cliffs, the unique crinoid sculptures, and close-ups of the ancient fossils you discover. The views of Pendle Hill through the trees are also picturesque.
Yes, it offers opportunities for geological photography, macro shots of fossils, and capturing the rugged landscape.
Morning or late afternoon light can provide softer shadows and highlight the textures of the rocks and fossils.
Absolutely! Documenting your fossil finds is a great way to remember your visit. Just be mindful of the environment.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any private property nearby.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress children in sturdy, waterproof footwear as the trails can be muddy. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The one-hour trail is manageable for most children, offering a good balance of activity and exploration without being too strenuous. It’s a great spot for a morning or afternoon adventure that sparks curiosity about the natural world.
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
While the presence of industrial units might detract from a purely pristine natural setting for some, the opportunity to discover ancient fossils like crinoids adds significant value. The sculptures of sea creatures also provide a unique artistic element. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and wear comfortable walking shoes for the best experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Wonders of Salthill Quarry
The quarry also showcases evidence of glacial movement, with rocks smoothed by the passage of ancient ice sheets. The limestone cliff face itself is a significant feature, a remnant of the quarrying activities that once took place here. While some areas might be fenced off, the accessible parts of the trail offer a tangible connection to prehistoric times. The interactive waymarkers with QR codes provide additional information about the geological features, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit.
For families, Salthill Quarry offers an unparalleled opportunity for hands-on learning. Children can actively participate in searching for fossils, making the experience both fun and educational. It’s a chance for them to connect with natural history in a way that textbooks can’t replicate. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy, especially after rainfall.
Navigating the Salthill Quarry Nature Trail
As you follow the path, you'll encounter different terrains, including grassy fields and rocky outcrops. A notable feature is a section of cliff accessible by a few steps, offering a good vantage point to see fossils embedded in the rock. The trail also leads to a larger field with rocky areas where crinoid fossils are particularly abundant on the ground. At the top of this field, you'll find a stone seating area with sculptures of crinoids, adding an artistic touch to the natural landscape.
Be prepared for the trail to be muddy and slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended. The walk typically takes about an hour to complete. The route eventually leads you back to the roadway opposite the car park. While the trail offers a good experience, some visitors have expressed disappointment with the presence of industrial units adjacent to the natural reserve.
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