Saltmarsh and estuary at Abbotts Hall Farm
View from hide over estuary
Essex Wildlife Trust has taken the difficult decision to close all of our Nature Discovery Centres and cancel our upcoming events until the end of June to prioritise the welfare of our staff, volunteers and members of the public and to help limit the spread of the virus (COVID-19). Please see here to read the Trust’s full statement.
Our nature reserves remain open to the public to enjoy, excluding Fingringhoe Wick, Abberton Reservoir, Abbotts Hall Farm and Hanningfield Reservoir (the Fishing Lodge remains open), which will be closed to visitors for the time being.
Thank you for your ongoing support, patience and understanding at this challenging time. We look forward to welcoming you back as soon as we can.
Location
Know before you go
Parking information
Large on site car parkBicycle parking
YesGrazing animals
SheepAccess
Please contact Abbotts Hall Farm for more information.
Dogs
Facilities
When to visit
Opening times
Closed until further notice.Best time to visit
All year roundAbout the reserve
Abbotts Hall Farm is the head office of Essex Wildlife Trust. It links together over 3,000 acres of wildlife rich land along a 25km stretch of Essex Coast. The farm is situated on the Blackwater Estuary, an internationally important area for wildlife.
The 700 acres farm shows how sustainable coastal defences can lead to the creation of coastal marshes that are vital for the future of both wildlife and people. This is a working farm where Essex Wildlife Trust is aiming to show how wildlife can flourish alongside profitable farming.
Please take time to enjoy the beautiful gardens at Abbotts Hall, which are lovingly and carefully tended by volunteers.
Contact us
Environmental designation
Coastal Defence and Realignment
Essex Wildlife Trust purchased Abbotts Hall Farm in 1999 and was keen to work with the Environment Agency to try and re-grow new coastal marshes on the Essex Coast.
The Farm
Abbotts Hall Farm is a working farm, but there are many footpaths for visitors to enjoy. Essex Wildlife Trust has made changes to the farm, such as improving the farm for wildlife.
Historical Interest
There are several points on your walk where you can get a vision of the historical landscape. The Great Wigborough Henge is on slightly raised area and reputed to be the site of a wooden henge or round house. There are eight Red Hills on the site which indicate Iron Age/Roman salt production.
