Harrison Sayer
3ac/1ha
Grid ref: TL 557 441
Updated 31/12/2023.
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This small Essex Wildlife Trust reserve contains one of the few surviving areas of unimproved boulder clay grassland in north-west Essex, which otherwise is arable farmland. Once part of a war-time airbase, an old local road passes through it, now partially overgrown.
It has a small wet area and also two concrete-lined brick fuel tanks. Nearly 106 metres above sea-level, it commands fine views over south Cambridgeshire.
Flowering plants include bee orchid, wild liquorice, twayblade, fairy flax and blue fleabane. Elsewhere on the site blackthorn and wild rose (including two uncommon species) abound.
A number of bird species inhabit the blackthorn thickets and the insect life is also of interest.
Visiting
On the B1052 about 3 miles north of Saffron Walden, 800m from Hadstock – identifiable from the road by the large hangar at its rear.
Accessible at all times.
Late June for roses and bee orchids.
Unsuitable for disabled visitors.
Keep out of brick structures as there may be loose masonry.
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