Harlow Marshes
33ac/13.3ha LNR
Grid ref: TL 453 115
Updated 31/12/2023.
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Harlow Council owns several sections of former flood meadow along the River Stort north of Harlow which together form the Harlow Marsh LNR.
Parndon Moat Marsh is a former moated manor house and mill dating from the 12th century and to the east beyond Harlow Town Park is Maymeads Marsh. They are linked by the towpath footpath and crossed by other footpaths and a Green Lane.
South of the railway and accessible via a footbridge (and a lengthy walk) is Marshgate Spring. Continuing west along the towpath you reach Parndon Mead, which is common land.
The combination of rough grassland with plenty of water makes for good insect and bird life. In summer, grassland butterflies mingle with dragonflies on the waterways, including the banded demoiselle, while moorhens and ducks look after their young families on the river and the occasional common tern flits gracefully past looking for prey.
Visiting
Access via Burnt Mill Lane which turns off the A414 a short distance north of the roundabout where it meets the A1019 from Harlow town centre and the A1169. Walk through Harlow Town Park or west along the towpath. SatNav: CM20 2QS.
Harlow Town station is right next to the car park at the end of Burnt Mill Lane.
Accessible at all times.
May and June for breeding birds and meadow flowers. July and August for dragonflies and other insects.
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