I've always been very curious why one of the hides at Leighton Moss is called the Public Hide. Is it because it's freely available to everyone and no charges are made to non-members of the RSPB using that hide.
Regards,
Ian.
Hi Thomo, from what I can ascertain, although not 100% sure, The Causeway is a public right of way and also a public bridleway so it would be difficult to put tarrifs on such an area. I don't know Leighton Moss that well so others may be better able to answer your question.
_____________________________________
Regards, Hazel
Hi Thomo and Hazy. That is correct. The causeway is a public bridleway (which means it is a right of way for walkers, cyclists and horse ridders) and therefore no charge can be made to non-members if they are using that particular track. As the hide is on the public bridleway, it is therefore also open to all people passing through (although obviously we provide the hide and the stunning reserve viewed from it so always appreciate those who want to become members to allow our work to continue). Dogs on leads are also allowed along the causeway and in the hide, provided they are well behaved.
The public hide is my favourite and I never knew that you could use it for free but knowing this now I would still put my hand in my pocket just for the beauty of the place itself I have been many times and hope to do in the future.James Bennett
Jim
My Pictures
My Fbook Group
It is one of my favorite hides too but as a member all of the hides and all of the RSPB reserves are free - it's one of the benefits I get from being a member but added to that I know that my membership money pays for the conservation work that keeps Leighton Moss and all the reserves as stunning as they are. I only recently learned that without the constant work of the wardens and volunteers the reedbed would dry out and become woodland very quickly. Then there would be no bitterns or bearded tits etc. It's the membership donations that pay for this work and without the support of the membership donations none of this vital work would be possible. That makes me feel even better about being a member - I may not be able to get out there and do the work but I know that my membership is helping to keep special places like Leighton Moss going