Nature Reserves & Forest

Essex has a large expanse of nature reserves and forests adorning the county. The choice is astounding, from 87 Essex Wildlife Trust nature reserves dotted across Essex and brimming with wildlife, to the Thames Chase Community Forest who are committed to promoting woodland creation, to the vast and stunning Epping Forest. You’ll be spoilt for choice on your visit to Essex so don’t forget your walking boots and your inner explorer.

Reap the rewards of improved mental and physical health by disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of life and delving into the wonders of the forest or strolling around a nature reserve. As well as being beneficial for your wellbeing, they are also vital for ecological functions, including air purification, sustaining biodiversity and protecting wildlife and natural habitats.

What are you waiting for? Take in the fresh countryside air, admire the biodiversity of our Essex landscape and reconnect with the wonders of nature.

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Number of results: 28

, currently showing 21 to 28.

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
87 reviews
Thorndon Nature Discovery Centre

Address

Thorndon Park North, The Avenue, Brentwood, Essex, CM13 3RZ

Telephone
01277 232944

Thorndon@essexwt.org.uk

Brentwood

Home to the Gruffalo trail Thorndon has a lot to offer for all ages, glorious woodland walks and a café with a view of the trees and squirrels. The woods are open for dog walkers and the trail path is buggy friendly. Come and explore the outdoors…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
21 reviews
RSPB Wallasea Island

Address

Wallasea Island, Rochford, Essex, SS4 2HD

Telephone
01702 669346

wallasea@rspb.org.uk

Rochford

Explore the wild coast of Essex at Wallasea Island with over 12km of trail to explore.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
165 reviews
Epping Forest

Address

Epping Forest, Paul's Nursery Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4AE

Telephone
020 8532 1010

epping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Loughton

Epping Forest is of national and international conservation importance with two thirds of it being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.
The Naze

Address

Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, CO14 8LJ

Telephone
01255 686633

clactontic@tendringdc.gov.uk

Essex

The Naze is located just north of Walton-on-the-Naze, in North East Essex. The beautiful Naze cliffs and national nature reserve provide the perfect opportunity for walking and bird watching.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
86 reviews
Hockley Woods

Address

Main Road, Hockley, Essex, SS5 4RN

Telephone
+44 (0)1702 318034

externalservicesadmin@rochford.gov.uk

Hockley

A 280 acre ancient woodland, managed for the benefit of wildlife and the public. Traditional coppice management encourages a diverse array of animals, birds, plants and insects, including the nationally rare Heath Fritillary butterfly.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
214 reviews
Seal Watching Trips, Harwich

Address

1 The Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3HH

Telephone
01728 666329

customerservice@sealwatching.co.uk

Harwich

Seal Watching Trips, Harwich is a must do experience for ocean, nature lovers and wildlife bird watchers. Book a 2 hour trip on our seal watching tour boat for all ages, at sealwatching.co.uk See seals in their natural habitat on the banks of the…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
166 reviews
Thames Chase Forest Centre

Address

Pike Lane, off St Mary's Lane, Upminster, Essex, RM14 3NS

Telephone
+44 (0)1708 642970

enquiries@thameschase.org.uk

Upminster

The Forest Centre offers lots of features and activities for a fun family day out with cycling and lots of environmental play areas scattered about.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
9 reviews
Bobbit's Hole Nature Reserve

Address

Main Rd, Dovercourt, Essex, CO12 3HJ

Telephone
01255 553610

info@harwich-society.co.uk

Dovercourt

A quiet haven hidden in the middle of the town this small nature reserve is approx. 2 acres with a small pond. Used by local groups, schools etc for educational purposes. Also by general public to view flora & fauna