Essex Wildlife Trust’s Warley Place is set to come alive this spring with the annual Spring Bulb Spectacular. From snowdrops in February, crocuses in late February to early March, to daffodils in March and early April, the reserve’s woodland floors and surrounding meadows promise a breathtaking display of colour and fragrance. Daffodils—the heralds of spring—will bloom in their thousands, creating a spectacular sight for visitors of all ages.

Warley Place is not just about flowers. The reserve was once the home of Ellen Willmott (1858–1934), an eminent horticulturalist and one of the first recipients of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Victoria Medal of Honour. Many of the rare and exotic plants she introduced still flourish here today. Volunteers from Essex Wildlife Trust have carefully restored the gardens, preserving much of their original charm and historical features.

The reserve is also a haven for woodland birds. Visitors can enjoy spotting Treecreepers, Nuthatch, Long-Tailed Tits, and Great Spotted Woodpeckers from the bird hides—so don’t forget your binoculars!

The Spring Bulb Spectacular events take place on weekends from Saturday 21 February to Sunday 29 March, 10.30 am–4.30 pm, and over Easter weekend from Friday 3 to Monday 6 April, 10.30 am–4.30 pm. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions about the garden and local wildlife. Suggested donation: £3 per person.

Warley Place is located near Essex Wildlife Trust’s Thorndon Countryside Centre (CM13 3RZ), where visitors can extend their day with the Gruffalo Trail or enjoy a relaxing cup of tea and cake.