The English Lake District WHS

Wetlands and bogs in the Lake District

Natural Wetlands & Bogs

The Lake District’s wetlands, including rare lowland raised mires and high-altitude peat bogs, are vital ecosystems for specialized flora and fauna. Sites like Foulshaw Moss and Rusland Moss are significant National Nature Reserves that support rare species such as the white-faced darter dragonfly and provide nesting grounds for ospreys. These carbon-storing landscapes feature unique vegetation, including sundews and sphagnum mosses, and are often accessible via dedicated boardwalks and fellside trails.

Natural Wetlands & Bogs — Map

A

Foulshaw Moss

Lowland raised mire and nature reserve known for its breeding osprey colony. Features accessible boardwalks and supports rare species like the large heath butterfly.

B

Deer Dike Moss

Part of the Roudsea Wood and Mosses National Nature Reserve, this lowland raised bog is characterized by deep peat layers and specialized mire vegetation.

C

Milnthorpe Sands

Tidal saltmarsh and mudflats situated at the mouth of the River Bela within the Kent Estuary.

D

Tewit Moss

Upland peat bog located on the fells above Broughton-in-Furness, supporting acid-loving vegetation.

E

Snipe Bog

Wetland area located near the northern shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, providing habitat for various wading birds.

F

The Pewits

High-level mire located on the northern slopes of the Helvellyn range, near Thirlmere.

G

Brat's Moss

Upland marshland located near Burnmoor Tarn in the western fells, dominated by sphagnum moss and sedges.

H

Candleseaves Bog

Remote upland bog situated near Skiddaw House, forming part of the catchment for the River Caldew.

I

Blea Moss

Peat bog located in the glacial hanging valley above Little Langdale, near the Wrynose Pass.

J

Nor Moss

Wetland area located near the southern end of Esthwaite Water, contributing to the biodiversity of the Vale of Esthwaite.

K

Quagrigg Moss

Extensive upland peat bog located near Devoke Water on Birker Fell, notable for its depth and carbon storage.

L

Rusland Moss

One of Britain’s first National Nature Reserves, this site is a prime example of a lowland raised mire undergoing ecological restoration.

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