Essex Wildlife Trust, Abbotts Hall Farm, Gt Wigborough, Colchester, Essex CO5 7RZ
Warley Place
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25 acres, Leased
Grid ref: TQ 583 906 (click for O/S map)
Last updated 20/7/2008
The reserve comprises the site of a house (demolished in the 1930s) and once-famous gardens which were originally laid out by the diarist John Evelyn between 1649 and 1655. The last occupant of the house was Miss Ellen Willmott, who died in 1934. She re-modelled the gardens and introduced into them a vast assortment of new plants from all over the world.
The site had been neglected but has now been restored, although not in the form of the original gardens. Parts of their remains can still be seen, along with parts of the old house and a number of the surviving plants. Early purple crocus, daffodils, snowdrops, winter aconites, anemones, cranesbills and ferns grow in profusion again, mingling with indigenous species. Among a variety of trees, some exotic, is a line of huge sweet chestnuts, said to have been planted by John Evelyn.
The reserve attracts a wide variety of birds, including the nuthatch, and has a good selection of invertebrates.
Controlling the spread of sycamore and other invasive plants; keeping ponds and walks open; keeping scrub out of daffodil banks.
Visiting
The reserve is on the B186 (Brentwood to S. Ockendon) just south of Brentwood. The reserve gate is next to the Thatcher's Arms PH, from where a short track leads to the car park. From there a path leads to the main part of the reserve through one of the famous early purple crocus meadows (not part of the reserve).
Buses from Brentwood rail station to Romford and Grays run past the entrance; ask for Thatchers Arms.
Trust members and holders of day permits (obtainable from Abbotts Hall Farm, 01621 862960) only. No dogs are allowed at Warley Place.
Late March when the spring flowers are at their best. No dogs are allowed at Warley Place.
Snowdrop walks Sunday 18th Feb and Wed 21st Feb guided walks 10.45 am.