Bird PlacesYorkshire Wildlife Trust reserve · Doncaster, Yorkshire
Potteric Carr birdwatching guide
Potteric Carr is the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's flagship wetland: 250 hectares of reedbed, fen and open water inside Doncaster's ring road, watched from fourteen hides. Bitterns breed here, and the accessible path network makes it a superb family reserve.
Key facts
- Habitat
- wetland
- Size
- 250 ha
- Entry fee (adult)
- £7.00
- Entry fee (child)
- £3.50
- Membership required
- No
- Hides
- 14
- Wheelchair access
- Yes
- Car park
- Yes
- Car park to hides
- 300m on surfaced paths
- Toilets
- Yes
- Dogs
- Not allowed
- Status
- open
- Best seasons
- spring, winter
Species by season
| Season | Species | Likelihood | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| spring | Bittern (Botaurus stellaris) | frequent | Breeding since 2014 |
| summer | Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus) | frequent | — |
| autumn | Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) | frequent | — |
| winter | Bittern (Botaurus stellaris) | frequent | — |
| winter | Willow Tit (Poecile montanus) | frequent | A regional stronghold |
Hides at Potteric Carr
Getting there
Mallard Way, Doncaster, Yorkshire, DN4 8DB
View on OpenStreetMap · Official website
Facilities & opening
9am–5pm daily
Frequently asked questions
How many hides does Potteric Carr have?
Fourteen hides overlook the pools and reedbeds — the most of any Yorkshire reserve.
Can I see bitterns at Potteric Carr?
Yes, bitterns breed in the reedbeds; winter and early spring give the best chance of a sighting.
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Information last updated 30 May 2026.