Salthill Quarry is internationally renowned for its fascinating geological formations and visitors - particularly children - will delight in spotting the fossilised tubes of crinoids (sea lilies) that are believed to be 340 million years old.

But this disused limestone quarry, just one mile to the Northeast of Clitheroe, is also home to a variety of interesting wild plants. The trails lead through a range of soil conditions, and the identification of the specific plants that each soil-type supports makes for a rewarding addition to a very pleasant walk.

In the Southeast corner of the reserve, plants such as bee orchid, milkwort and autumn gentian are well-adapted to the sparse soil, whereas cowslips, wild strawberry, and lady's bedstraw occupy the more established conditions.

Naturally, the reserve is rich in insect and bird life. During the summer, time your visit for the late afternoon when the sky will be filled with swifts and later, if you're lucky, pipistrelle bats.

Ordnance Survey Map: OS EXP OL 41 (E)