Heather Hills
17ac/7ha
Grid ref: TL 780 077
Updated 31/12/2023.
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This reserve, licensed to Essex Wildlife Trust by Little Baddow Council, is divided in two by a very steep stream valley, on either side of which are slopes once covered in heather but which is now restricted to the summit and edges.
It has many native trees and shrubs, including a row of elms, and also stands of mature beech, scots pine and european larch. Flowers include moschatel, white climbing fumitory and heath bedstraw. Several species of fern grow along the stream together with a variety of wetland plants.
Visiting
On the east side of North Hill, Little Baddow. The main entrance is off North Hill, using a trackway known as York Street. On-street parking.
Regular bus services Chelmsford–Maldon or Chelmsford-S. Woodham, getting off at Eve's Corner, or bus to Little Baddow.
Accessible at all times
Spring for early flowers; August for heather.
Take great care when descending the steep scarp to the valley floor.
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