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Bow Creek Ecology Park

10ac/4ha  

Grid ref: TQ 393 813


Updated 31/12/2023.

Available also via books and apps – click here for details.


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This little gem in the East End was originally an osier bed, then became an ironworks, and has now been transformed into an ecology park. As you enter, you have views over tidal mudflats fringing the river, where redshank often feed. Flocks of waders can also be seen commuting along the river as the tides change.

The path leads you past a stream and ponds fed from a borehole and small wildflower meadows,. In summer you can expect to see butterflies such as small copper, orange tip and green-veined white, and possibly emperor dragonfly.

Kestrels often hunt along the railway verges. Sand martin and kingfisher breeding banks have been created, so there is a chance of seeing them also. Reed buntings sometimes breed and grey wagtails often visit in winter.

Visiting

In Canning Town near where the River Lea enters the Thames, south of the East India Dock Road (A13) and just east of the Blackwall Tunnel.

Jubilee line tube or Docklands Light Railway to Canning Town station. Several bus services run to Canning Town also.

Accessible 9.15am to dusk.


© Glyn Baker