Bolton Fell Moss is an exceptional example of a lowland raised mire, in the northwest of Cumbria, with a history that has seen it transition from a site of industrial peat extraction to a National Nature Reserve.

Since 2013, when extraction ceased and ownership was transferred to Natural England, restoration has included ground works to assist rewetting and create good conditions for cotton grass, sphagnum mosses and other bog plants.

Natural England rangers, volunteers, and scientists from University of Cumbria continue to monitor this wonderful site, recording butterflies, birds, weather, hydrology and gas emission and sequestration.

About the leader

The walk will be led by the Natural England site manager and by artists, including Rob Fraser, who have worked with the bog and the local community over the past few years.

Rob Fraser is vice-chair of North West regional committee and has worked with the peat bog and the team from Natural England for the past four years.

Event information

The 3km route follows an accessible boardwalk around a portion of the Moss. Attendees should bring water, snacks and appropriate clothing to spend time in an exposed site. Dogs must be kept on a lead. Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

Booking information

  • Advance booking for this event is required. In order to book you will need an account on our website. If you already have an account you will be prompted to log in when you click 'book now'. Please create an account if you do not have one yet (you do not need to be a member of the Society to create an account).
  • We do not issue tickets (electronic or physical) for this event. Instead your name will be on a list at the door.
  • Your contact details (name and mobile phone number) will be shared with the event organiser in case of emergency or last-minute change to the event. The event organiser will delete all of the information provided by you within seven days of the event taking place.
  • If you have any pre-existing medical conditions that will affect your ability to participate in this visit (including any dietary allergies) please let us know events@rgs.org

If you have any questions or require assistance with your booking, please email events@rgs.org

This event has been organised by the North West regional committee with Natural England.

Venue information

Please meet at Bolton Fell Moss National Nature Reserve, near Boltonfellend, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA6 6JL. The what3words of the meeting point are: ///decently.stoops.spouse

Please make sure you arrive on time for the event. There will be a health and safety briefing at the beginning of the event which will inform attendees of significant risks and any precautions they may need to take. 

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Key Information

Open to all
Saturday 9 May 2026
10.00am-1.00pm
Cumbria

In-person
Non-member £0.00, Member £0.00
Book now