Hogmarsh
8ac/3ha SSSI, SPA
Grid ref: TM 103 325
Updated 31/12/2023.
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An area of saltmarsh jutting out into the tidal River Stour opposite Manningtree, donated to Essex Wildlife Trust by Lt.-Col. C.A. Brooks in 1973. Mute swan, canada goose and oystercatcher nest and many other estuary bird species visit. The saltmarsh is threatened by erosion and this is being fought by building faggot barriers and importing silt dredged from elsewhere in the river.
Visiting
Park along the Cattawade river barrage on the A137 (Colchester–Ipswich) road, then walk south-east along the seawall and under the railway bridge.
Manningtree railway station is about 15 minutes' walk.
Can be viewed from footpaths to the north at all times. The reserve itself can only be entered at low tide.
Unsuitable for dog walking.
Very soft mud surrounds most of the reserve, so wellingtons are essential.
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