What was once one of the largest landfill sites in western Europe is now unrecognisable as a thriving nature reserve at the mouth of the Thames Estuary. Across Thameside, a network of trails overlook Mucking Mudflats and Stanford Wharf. At the top of the site, our Nature Discovery Centre boasts an accessible rooftop, allowing everyone to enjoy panoramic views of the site to the mouth of the estuary. Make sure to take a moment to look up at the sky and admire the starling murmurations which swirl across the sky like shape-shifting clouds. If you are lucky, you may also witness a short-eared owl, with its piercing yellow eyes, gracefully hunting over the grasslands.

Once a barren and lunar landscape after years as a quarry, Fingringhoe Wick, Essex Wildlife Trust’s first reserve is now a haven for many species. Set in a spectacular position overlooking the Colne Estuary, even on the dullest of days the views from Fingringhoe Wick are stunning. Many wildlife hides are dotted around the site that offer refuge of peace and quiet. Look out for the thousands of waders and wildfowl that migrate to the estuary every winter, including the scarce avocet that sweeps its bill from side-to-side in shallow water searching for tasty treats. Numerous walking trails lead you through the different habitats that this site has to offer, where you can explore woodland, scrub, heathland and ponds.  

Take a breath of salty fresh air and escape from busy life by tuning into nature and enjoying a coastal walk. Look out over the mudflats, which are the ideal habitat for thousands of waders and wildfowl. Take a moment to stop and listen for the large shuffling flocks of dark-bellied brent geese that graze on the thick beds of eel-grass, having completed their epic journey from the Arctic to this small island in the Thames estuary. Wander around the western section and you will reach the Lagoon Hide, where hundreds of waders such as curlew, dunlin, avocet, redshank and black-tailed godwit flock to.

The parkland is filled with a myriad of habitats including mature woodland, marshes, meadows, ponds and streams to explore. At the heart of the site is the Nature Discovery Centre, where you will be met with a warm welcome and the chance to fuel up with a snack and look out over the spectacular views across London and into Kent. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk through the park and glimpse wild deer including roe, fallow and muntjac. If you aren’t lucky enough to catch a peek of the shy wild deer, you can admire our captive red deer herd grazing in the parklands.

Winter is the perfect time to enjoy the wonders of this wetland site of international importance for wildfowl, you might be lucky enough to spot exciting visitors including smew and goldeneye birds soaring across the sky. Wander the circular trail round the reserve to the two bird hides and enjoy the chorus of migrating birds as you shelter from the elements. Afterwards, head to the Nature Discovery Centre where you can enjoy a warming hot chocolate while taking in the views across the reservoir. Children can also enjoy the Brambly Hedge Trail and find Wilfred and his fellow mice hidden around the reserve including Primrose, Lord Woodmouse and Lady Woodmouse from the classic stories.

Blue House Farm nature reserve is a wildlife haven that transforms with the seasons. In winter, you'll be treated to the incredible sight and sound of dark-bellied brent geese, having completed their remarkable 2,500-mile journey from Siberia. Plus, you'll be able to witness the stunning 40-hectare wetland which was created as part of a recently completed conservation project. This wetland provides a perfect habitat for a variety of wildfowl and wading birds, including lapwing, oystercatchers and redshank. Keep your eyes peeled for barn owls gracefully soaring over the fields on the look-out for scurrying rodents. With its picturesque countryside views, easy circular walks, bird hides, and even herds of grazing sheep, Blue House Farm promises an unforgettable winter adventure. So, bundle up, bring your binoculars, and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure at Blue House Farm.