[1] It is located near to the Blackpool districts of Marton and Mereside and the village of Staining.

It is recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

[2] It supports various habitats such as open water, reed beds, grassland as well as pockets of woodland and scrub.

[3] Originally approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) long and 1 mile (1.6 km) wide, the lake was gradually drained throughout the 18th century to allow land to be reclaimed for agriculture.

[4] The reserve is adjacent to Marton Mere Holiday Village.