For centuries the thick layer of clay which borders the Humber estuary has been used to make tiles, bricks and cement. At the industry's height in the late 1800s, hundreds of men were employed to dig the clay by hand. The tile yards were abandoned in the 1950s, leaving the pits to fill naturally with water.

When the Trust began to manage Far Ings in the 1980s the reeds in the old clay pits were thick and dense. The booming call of the bittern was just a dream. Over the years the Trust has developed the techniques of reedbed management to dramatic effect. Bitterns, kingfishers, water voles and an array of other wildlife can now be seen at Far Ings.

The Visitor Centre has panoramic views over the reserve, interpretive displays and a gift shop.