4. East - Rainham Marshes
As a born and bred Essex boy myself, I realise it’s a bit cheeky to include Rainham Marshes in a post about London, as it technically falls in the borders of England 8th largest county. But, stay with me, because if you visit one of the RSPB’s most gorgeous nature reserves you won’t be disappointed. Rainham Marshes is a haven for wildlife and you’ll see and hear plenty. The concentration of wildfowl attracts large numbers of peregrine falcons to the marshes, so you may be lucky enough to see them. Blink and you’ll miss them though, as they are the fastest creature on the planet, reportedly reaching speeds of 200km/h when in freefall.
Rainham marshes
Rainham marshes
10th June in 2020, the first glow-worm sighting was announced and there certainly aren’t many places in London where you can experience these fluorescent bugs. It’s also a great place for cyclists for the velo-enthusiasts out there, you can add improving fitness to the benefits of Rainham Marshes alongside the benefits of wildlife and wellness.
5. South-East - The Green Chain Walk
On the topic of fitness, if you are a keen rambler then the Green Chain Walk needs to be added to your rambling bucket list. Weaving its way between the Thames and Crystal Palace, this interconnected route of open spaces and 11 walking trails. One of the nicest sections takes you through Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods. The London Wildlife Trust cares for their oldest natural area, which consists of new and ancient woodlands, as well as some remnants of Victorian gardens. It’s technically a part of the Great North Wood, that once stretched from Deptford to Selhurst.
There was once a railway line that passed through the woods, but this is long gone, but its legacy lives on positively. Namely, a railway arch at Sydenham Hill Wood now acts as a natural bat roost, and this spot is a fantastic place to enjoy the winged mammals so in need of help in the UK. If you want to be a bit more hands-on, LWT holds volunteer open days from 10:30 - 3:30 on Wednesdays and Thursdays, as well as the Second and Fourth Sundays of the month.
Sydenham Hill Woods ruins
Sydenham Hill Woods
So, as you can see, these 5 spots are a great starting point at staying wild in the city. There are heaps more places in and around the UK’s capital, but these are 5 really amazing gems (some hidden, some not so much). They cater for whatever levels of intrepidness you fancy and can be great spots to take the kids or the dog (always check guidance for our four-legged friends on respective websites).
They are most importantly some of the best examples of how essential biodiversity is for both flora, fauna and for ourselves. The positive effects on your health and wellbeing are undeniable. Visit them, help them and reap the benefits of having such amazing places to get outside so close to London.