We are so lucky here in northern England to have reds. They can still be seen in the wild in many areas...if you are lucky! They are more common though in certain parts of the north than others. Below are some of the places where you stand a good chance of catching a glimpse...
Cumbria
Stunning scenery surrounds the steep wooded slopes of Smardale Gill. Red squirrels can be seen racing between the trees. Only 10 years ago, reds were almost extinct here following an influx of greys. Thankfully reds are now once again thriving.
Whinlatter Forest Park Keswick
Whinlatter Red Squirrel Experience in the Visitor Centre. Red Squirrels can also be seen within the forest on any of the forest walks
Towering above Bassenthwaite Lake, this Forestry Commission woodland offers fantastic views. Red squirrels can be seen on the feeders just below the osprey viewing platform.
Reds are regularly fed by hotel staff in the grounds.
4-5 red squirrels seen daily - almost guaranteed viewing!
Reds regularly visit feeders just a short walk from the hotel car park.
Northumberland
Two dedicated feeding stations in the grounds of the museum.
Kielder Watererside Kielder
Take a short stroll through woodland to the wildlife hide where red squirrels are often seen on feeders.
Howick Hall Gardens & Aboretum Alnwick
Approximately 11,000 trees and shrubs in 65 acres of woodland with red squirrels too.
Fantastic waterfall walk with reds in woodland.
Northumberland Wildlife Trust reserve on the east coast, reds often seen on the feeder adjacent to the car park.
National Trust property with red squirrels regularly seen at the bird hides.
County Durham
An award winning museum with red squirrels in the grounds. A great family day out.
A SSSI overlooking Derwent Reservoir. Lots to see here, including red squirrels!
Merseyside
National Trust Formby
Stunning coastline with large areas of beaches, sand dunes and pine woods where reds live.
North Yorkshire
Simon Phillpott's purpose built red squirrel hide - a great opportunity to get the perfect red squirrel photo. There is a charge for using the hide.
A dedicated red squirrel viewing area. With luck you may also see roe deer, along with a variety of woodland birds such as siskin, lesser redpoll and perhaps even a common crossbill.