Interesting Places
Here are some random sample locations of interest in Essex. Also take a look at sites shown on our sites map, geology site map and brownfield site map, with the site account and locate site facility.
locate Cressing Temple
This Templar site with origins in the 12th century is of international importance and a scheduled ancient monument. It is home to the two finest Templar barns in Europe.The site is made up of a group of remarkable farm buildings, the barns and a Tudor walled garden.
locate Hunts Hill, Belhus Woods Country Park
Old sand workings with sand exposures, flower rich areas, a small area of lichen heath, sparsely vegetated ground and lakes. Drought stressed oaks occur at several locations at the site. Access by car is via BWCP car park (which see), but footpaths are also close by.
locate Brickbarn Wood
Taken to include Combe Wood to the east. This area is not all woodland, despite its name. The site has many excellent Sarsen Stones and an astonishing array of rare or scarce plants. Access by foot from Davy Down Country Park
locate Hadleigh Castle
Ancient monument with remarkable landslip invertebrate fauna and an important geological site.
locate Chafford Gorges
A series of old chalk quarries, now owned and managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust.
locate Skinners Wall, Manningtree
Skinnners Wall is the name given to the stretch of sea defences on the Essex side of the River Stour from behind the the Skinners Arms P.H., to The Cattawade, White Bridge.
locate Crabknowe Spit
One of the few areas in Essex with an albeit small dune system.
locate Swan Wood, Stock
Ancient woodland with some past non-native planting. Wet valley habitat, open coppiced areas, wonderful bluebell display.