) to insert bird names in your own language. The birdnames will automatically be translated for other users!
Upload images
Allowed image types are jpeg,png,gif
Max file size is 20MB
Description
Rainham Marshes protects 411 hectares of ancient, low-lying grazing marsh in the Thames Estuary. Its complex of wet grassland and ditches, together with grassland and scrub, supports many breeding and wintering birds. The reserve is easily reached due to excellent road and rail transport. Although most of the reserve is open water or wet grazing, there are also small areas of woodland. It attracts a wide range of water fowl and some passerines. Western Marsh Harrier are usually present.
Details
Access
Rainham Marshes nature reserve is located in Purfleet, adjacent to the Thames Estuary. Several trunk roads pass nearby and there is adequate parking at busy times. Press P on the map for directions to the car park. A long-distance footpath is adjacent to the reserve and nearby Purfleet station has a frequent rail service. Access within the reserve is on a level footpath and boardwalk that provides a circular route.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Wetland , Lake , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , ReedbedsConditions
Flat , Wet , Open landscapeCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
SpringRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , WheelchairBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
There are fixed opening and closing times: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm.
There are elevated views across some of the reserve. It's worth venturing onto the river wall and viewing the riverside - there's a one-way gate.
At present (October 2022), repairs are in progress to the boardwalk and it's not possible to complete a circuit of the reserve.