interesting places
Here are some random sample locations of interest in Essex. Also take a look at sites shown on our sites map, geology site map and brownfield site map, with the site account and locate site facility.
locate Copley Plain, Epping Forest
Copley Plain is a sloping, open area of Bracken, Heather and grasses surrounded by ancient Beech wood-pasture
locate Hylands Park
Hylands House is a stunning Grade II* listed property, spectacularly restored to its former glory situated in 574 acres of historic landscaped parkland. It has been shown to have an important flora and fauna, including many saproxylic (dead wood) species (see Essex Parks, an Essex Field Club publication).
locate Backwarden, Danbury
An important part of the Danbury ridge with small surviving heather areas and associated invertebrates.
locate Swan Wood, Stock
Ancient woodland with some past non-native planting. Wet valley habitat, open coppiced areas, wonderful bluebell display.
locate Tiptree Heath
Best surviving heathland in Essex, an outlier of the 18th century Heath and a remnant of a much larger vast tract to be found in the 15th century. The heath has suffered from succession to scrub and woodland, but recent efforts have returned more areas to open heath.
locate Hunts Hill, Belhus Woods Country Park
Old sand workings with sand exposures, flower rich areas, a small area of lichen heath, sparsely vegetated ground and lakes. Drought stressed oaks occur at several locations at the site. Access by car is via BWCP car park (which see), but footpaths are also close by.
locate PITSEA MARSH
locate Shadwell Wood
Shadwell Wood is an ancient Oxlip wood situated on the Chalky Boulder Clay of north-west Essex. It supports a rich assemblage of plants and animals.