Hadleigh Country Park

Description

Hadleigh Country Park is one of the largest country parks in Essex. It takes its name from nearby Hadleigh Castle, an impressive ruin of a fortress built over 700 years ago, immortalised on canvas by John Constable. It's a great place to walk, picnic, or discover wildlife and one of the best places in Essex to see butterflies. It is also home to reptiles, which can sometimes be seen in the mornings warming themselves on the sunny slopes, whilst winter brings flocks of birds, such as geese and waders, to the marshes to feed.

Visitors can explore by following one of the self-guided trails from Chapel Lane taking in some impressive views as they go - where else in Essex can you see Kent, Canvey, Southend Pier, Canary Warf and the Dartford Bridge all from the same place? Alternatively, take a bracing walk along the sea wall between Leigh and Benfleet and return by train. A round house, typical of the Iron Age, has been built and is used for educational visits and special events, allowing you to step back in time and gain a glimpse into our history.

The rangers organise a variety of activities throughout the year from costumed events to star gazing evenings.