Tiptree Heath
60ac/24ha SSSI
Grid ref: TL 883 147
Updated 31/12/2023.
Available also via books and apps – click here for details.
Mouse over links for pictures; click for detail page.
Tiptree Heath is a small fragment of a huge heathland that used to stretch from Maldon to Messing, covering thousands of acres. It is the finest and largest area of heath in Essex, and the only place where you will find all three native heather species growing together.
Ling heather, which is tall and vigorous enough to survive in gorse, covers large areas, and there are areas of bell heather and a small amount of cross-leaved heath that prefers the wetter parts. Harebells appear in late summer, and other unusual wild plants, include heath dog-violet, allseed and chaffweed.
Its birdlife includes many willow warblers, nightingales, turtle doves and the occasional woodcock.
Some fenced sections are grazed by Exmoor ponies.
Visiting
The heath straddles the B1022 (Colchester–Maldon) 800m on the Maldon side of Tiptree. SatNav: CO5 0PU.
A regular bus service between Maldon and Colchester runs along the B1022 past the heath.
Accessible at all times.
April to see acres of gorse in flower; July–September for late flowers, including the heather, and grassland butterflies.
Call the Community Warden on 07842 110051.
.jpg)