Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve

Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve can be found on Davenport Lane, just south of the A54, mid-way between Holmes Chapel and Congleton. Look out for the brown tourist sign, view the road map.

The Local Nature Reserve has over 50 acres of mainly silver birch and oak woodland surrounding a 15 acre lake as well as areas of heathland, a wildflower meadow and wetland areas. There is a wealth of bird life, particularly in the woodland. Great and Lesser spotted woodpeckers, nuthatch, treecreepers, kingfisher, heron, great crested grebe, goldfinch are just a few of our regular sightings.

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There are recreation areas suitable for picnicing. Cycles are permitted and dogs do not have to be on leads as long as they are under control, but visitors are expected to clear dog waste from all areas outside the woodland. Dog waste bins are provided.

For those with mobility problems, there are free dedicated parking spaces, and a wheelchair accessible route follows the perimeter of the lake. A disabled toilet is available, for RADAR key holders.

Brereton Heath has a visitor centre, which includes a visitor information room, toilets, and changing rooms for lake users.

The park is open by 8.45am each day, and closes at 5 p.m. during the winter, and 8.30pm during British Summer Time.

Orienteering

A new and improved permanent orienteering course has been created.

Maps cost £1 each and are available via post, or the park office (please note that the office is not permanently staffed).

Canoeing

Annual canoe permits are available for groups only, costing £7.25 per year, per canoe. Canoe permits can be applied for by completing the downloadable form.

The Macclesfield Canoe Club utilise the lake for training. For more information contact the Macclesfield Canoe Club.

Angling

Angling day tickets are available from Wheelock Angling Society, cost £2.50 per rod, £1.50 for juniors and senior citizens. Pay at the bank-side. Please see notice-boards for details of where to fish.

There is curently no closed season for fishing at Brereton.

The Dane Coppice Crafts Group

A willow basket making group, The Dane Coppice Crafts Group, is based at the park. They meet on the last Saturday of each month in the visitor centre. Occasional beginners courses are offered. For further details email Christine Redstone or phone her on 01270 876924. Alternatively visit the Dane Coppice Crafts Group web site. The group has also been active in attracting visiting artists to Brereton to create outdoor environmental sculptures. These are not only interesting to look at, but also great fun for children!

Educational Visits

Organised educational visits to the reserve can be made by appointment.

Car Park Charges

Brereton Heath operates a Pay and Display car parking system for all visitors. Please ensure that you have the correct change for the ticket machine as the machine does not give change. The current charges are detailed below.

Season tickets can be applied for by downloading/completing and returning the application form. Please review the Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve parking terms and conditions prior to applying for a season ticket.