Langdon Park

Our largest inland nature reserve, enjoy ancient woodland, orchid meadows, ponds and the old plotlands.

Location

Langdon Nature Discovery Park
Lower Dunton Road
Basildon
SS16 6EJ
A static map of Langdon Park

Know before you go

Size
210 hectares
image/svg+xmlP

Parking information

Large free car park on site. Height restriction 7’ 2” (2.2m).
image/svg+xml

Bicycle parking

Yes
image/svg+xml

Grazing animals

Sheep grazing from January-March and from May-December.
Cows grazing from May-October
Goats grazing from July-September
image/svg+xml

Access

Various trails and routes throughout the nature reserve.

Dogs

image/svg+xmlDogs permitted

Dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area, not in the centre.

image/svg+xmli

Facilities

Visitor centre
Toilets
Shop
Cafe/refreshments
Accessible toilet
Baby changing facilities
Wifi
Disabled parking

When to visit

Opening times

Accessible at all times

Best time to visit

All year round

About the reserve

Langdon Park is set in a stunning 461-acre landscape of woodland, meadows, lakes, and former plotland gardens. It is the largest inland reserve managed by Essex Wildlife Trust and occupies some of the highest land in the county, offering commanding views and miles of excellent walking trails rich in wildlife.

In summer, visitors may enjoy turtle doves, nightingales, and woodcocks, while winter brings thrushes and finches. Thirty butterfly species can be found here, including white admiral, green hairstreak, marbled white, and grizzled skipper, making Langdon one of Essex’s top reserves for butterflies. Seven species of wild orchids bloom in May and June, and over 350 wild flowering plants have been recorded. Badgers, foxes, and weasels can also be spotted in the meadows.

Walks take visitors through many different habitats, including the Coronation Meadow, offering a nature-packed day out. In the future, a schools programme and activities for children and families will also be available.

Langdon Nature Discovery Centre, set within the park, features a café, wildlife-themed gift shop, accessible facilities, and detailed information about the park’s trails and wildlife. Visitors can relax in indoor or outdoor seating, enjoy seasonal activities and events, and use the centre as a base to explore the park’s diverse habitats and scenic walks.

Please note the Haven museum is currently closed while we develop exciting new plans to restore and preserve this important piece of Langdon’s heritage. Please do talk to the Nature Discovery Centre team to find out more.

Visit Langdon Nature Discovery Centre

Site Map

Contact us

Essex Wildlife Trust
Contact number: 01268 419103
Contact email: langdon@essexwt.org.uk

Environmental designation

Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)