Hale Duck Decoy

Hale Duck Decoy is a duck decoy and nature reserve near the village of Hale in Halton, Cheshire. The site lies within a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is owned by the Fleetwood-Hesketh Estate. It is managed by Halton Borough Council together with a group of volunteers. The decoy was built in the 17th century and repaired in 1754 by Colonel J. Blackburne. The estate had been owned by the Ireland Blackburne family since the 1600s before being bought by the Fleetwood-Hesketh family in the 1930s. The decoy is worth visiting for its historical significance and natural surroundings. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and part of the Mersey Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest. The site has faced challenges, including flooding in 1990 and 2013, but restoration efforts have maintained its condition. Guided walks are organised by the Friends of Pickerings Pasture, and the site is managed by volunteers. The inscribed stone within the site suggests a date of 1633, adding to its historical interest. Visitors find a central pond with five narrowing arms radiating outward, giving the decoy a pentagon shape. The area is surrounded by a moat crossed by a swing bridge, with woodland between the arms. The restored gamekeeper's hut contains display materials and information brochures. The woodland is subject to a Tree Preservation Order, and the site includes a salt marsh. The Friends of Pickerings Pasture organise guided walks for the public.