Phyllis Currie
22ac/9ha
Grid ref: TL 723 182
Updated 31/12/2023.
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This nature reserve, sloping down to a tributary of the River Ter, was left to Essex Wildlife Trust by Mrs Phyllis Currie. Originally an attractive and varied landscape, the Trust's management has increased its value for wildlife. Now, it is home to a wide variety of plants, birds and insects.
The most attractive single feature is the lake, created in the stream valley in the 1960s. Tufted duck nest here and kingfisher and grey heron are regular visitors. The lake, streams and ditches are valuable breeding sites for dragonflies and damselflies.
The grassland and sheltered glades are rich in flowers, including cuckoo flower in the wetter parts, cowslips and green-winged orchids, providing breeding opportunities for butterflies such as orange tip.
Visiting
In Dumney Lane, Great Leighs. Take the road to Felsted at the St Anne's Castle PH in Great Leighs. Dumney Lane is the first right turning.
Regular buses run to St Anne's Castle PH from Braintree and Chelmsford.
Accessible at all times.
Late spring and early summer for wild flowers; high summer for flying insects; autumn for leaf colours.
Wheelchair path leading from both entrances and around the lake.
Please keep dogs on leads at all times.
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