Description
Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Park is a peaceful nature reserve set in mature woodland with stunning views across the 870-acre Hanningfield Reservoir. It is a welcoming outdoor attraction focused on wildlife, walking, and nature discovery for all ages. The park offers a calm countryside escape while learning about birds, habitats, and conservation.
The park features woodland nature trails, bird hides, ponds, and panoramic reservoir viewpoints. Activities include wildlife watching, bird spotting, guided advice from the Nature Discovery Centre, and exploring the Wind in the Willows Sculpture Trail, which includes wooden sculptures and brass rubbings for families. Visitors can also enjoy browsing the visitor centre shop, relaxing with refreshments, and walking through to the Essex & Suffolk Water Fishing Lodge and Café on the Water.
Entry to Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Park is free, with donations welcomed by the trust. The Wind in the Willows Sculpture Trail map costs £1, and themed birthday parties are available at £175 for up to 15 children, with £7 per additional child, offering activities such as wildlife exploration, bushcraft, pirates, dinosaurs, and fairy-themed adventures.
Overall, Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Park offers a relaxing and educational outdoor experience. It combines wildlife, scenic walks, and family-friendly activities in a beautiful natural setting. This attraction is ideal for families, walkers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy peaceful countryside close to Essex towns.
The Wind in The Willows Sculpture Trail: At Hanningfield Reservoir you will find the Wind in the Willows sculpture trail. The trail consists of wooden sculptures of the most popular characters from the classic book and at each sculpture there is a brass rubbing of the animal that the sculpture depicts. If you come into the visitor centre you can buy a trail map for £1 and borrow a crayon for the brass rubbings. You will then be directed to where you can start the trail and begin your journey of discovery into the ‘Wild Wood’, finding Mr Toad and his friends. Great fun for all the family!
9.36 miles
