First Friday in May which we spent at Elmley Reserve in Kent….glorious day.
There’s a quiet magic to Elmley Nature Reserve in Kent is a tranquil haven that showcases the beauty of the British landscape especially great all year round but more so on a Friday which is friends of Elmley only visitors, just adds that little extra peace and quiet. Spanning over 3,300 acres of marshland, it boasts diverse habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and islands. Visitors can observe a rich variety of wildlife, from soaring birds like herons and waders to elusive species like marsh harriers. The panoramic views of the expansive skies and intricate waterways create a stunning backdrop for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. With its commitment to conservation, Elmley not only protects these vital ecosystems but also invites all to experience the serenity.
From the main gate its over a mile to the main car park and the road is just wide enough for two cars, which means you can stop anywhere and take in the vista, but the number one rule is do not leave the vehicle, you must use you car as a hide and you can spend as long as you like taking photos along the road and lots of different species line your path.
Ok so standing in the car parks looking towards the toilets, walk through the gate, past the small pond on the left and a few benches on the right, which are nice to sit and eat your sandwiches, and I suggest you take some and a flask of coffee as its two long walks. this path takes you down bast the lodgings you can rent, the Saltbox, Damson and little bit futher the Ferrymans heading towards Cockleshell beach which can be seen from the firts open hide on the right. Prices for the accomodation can be found at this link; https://www.elmleynaturereserve.co.uk/ This road takes you all the way down to the scrape, lots to see.
Now, another route, no less brimming with life, begins as the main entrance track concludes the house on the left and the barns on the right, this entrance at the beginning to the car park takes you past the woodland bell tents you can go glamping, past the old school house where the Little owl sits, though it’s proved elusive so far, right down past the open fields to the river at the bottom, where we heard the Bitterns boom but unfortuately never saw which was a shame as we haven’t seen them this year yet. Yes always we heard the Cuckoo, but thats most places we go and always calls at a distance, one day we will see it.
Both walks different in mood, alike in majesty are teeming with the sights and sounds of the wild. You don’t need to go far to find nature here. You only need to slow down, watch, and listen.
Todays sightings