Description
Elmley National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent is an internationally important freshwater grazing marsh wetland renowned for significant populations of over-wintering and breeding birds, and also hare, water voles, rare invertebrates and flora. Elmley is an independent nature reserve and working family farm where sensitive farming and conservation go hand in hand ,and is run with volunteer help. The 3,300-acre estate’s vast amount of freshwater habitat alongside the equally vast expanses of salt marsh and mudflats of the Swale (a channel of the sea separating Sheppey from the mainland) make the area a gigantic feeding table for waders and wildfowl throughout the year.
Visit for walks and sights from your vehicle, or take experiences including safaris, walks, private tours, and overnight stays.
Opening Hours
Varies with extended opening hours on selected dates for Friends of Elmley.
Price
Friends of Elmley: Free
Adult - 16 years + and up to 2 children: £10
Experiences: From £20
Must pre-book.
Accessibility
Blue Badge holders are permitted to drive down to the first hide, which is wheelchair accessible, with ‘perching posts’ are along the way to the hide allowing a rest.
Parking
There is a car park with toilet facilities at Kingshill Farm.
Cycling
Bikes are allowed on all permissive paths from June to September only but no through route is available.
Additional Notes
Visitors to enter the 2-mile road by vehicle from October to the end of May.
Facilities
Toilets • Picnic Area
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Picture Credit: © Elmley National Nature Reserve.
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