Posted: Thursday 27th March 2014 by ASpecialPlaceEachWeek
Warley Place Nature Reserve (Essex Wildlife Trust)
A particularly wonderful place to visit in early Spring, Essex Wildlife Trust’s Warley Place nature reserve glows with wild flowers and the chirps of many adored woodland bird species.
The 25-acre reserve is carpeted by a stunning display of Daffodils
The 25-acre reserve is carpeted by a stunning display of Daffodils, Crocuses and, a little later, Bluebells at this time of year – all with a backdrop of what was once a very famous Edwardian house, estate and garden, planned by well-known horticulturist Ellen Willmott.
To remodel the gardens, Ellen Willmott introduced a vast assortment of new plants from all over the world, with some still found on the reserve. Winter Aconites, Anemones, Cranesbills and Ferns grow in profusion again, mingling with native species.
The garden had fallen into neglect but has now been restored by an enthusiastic team of volunteers, although not in its original form. Part of the buildings remain and can still be seen, including the structure of a magnificent conservatory.
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Amid the splendour, you may also spot woodland birds, such as Great Spotted Woodpecker, Goldcrest, Nuthatch and Sparrowhawk.
Each spring, Public Open Weekends / Bank Holidays are held. This year they are running from March, to Easter Monday, 21 April inclusive. Opening times are 10am-5pm and guided walks are held on Saturday mornings from 10.30am, with a suggested donation of £3.
Please note that dogs are not allowed past the small car park and that there are no toilet facilities on the site.
For more information on visiting the reserve and events here, you can visit Essex Wildlife Trust's website here.
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