Cock Marsh: A Riverside Wildlife Haven and Ancient Heritage Site
Discover Cock Marsh, a tranquil riverside nature reserve blending rare wildlife habitats with ancient Bronze Age burial mounds in scenic Berkshire.
Cock Marsh is a 45-acre nature reserve near Cookham, Maidenhead, featuring diverse grasslands, rare plants, and important wildlife habitats alongside the River Thames. It is also home to Bronze Age burial mounds, blending natural beauty with rich historical significance. Managed by the National Trust, Cock Marsh offers peaceful walking trails, grazing livestock, and birdwatching opportunities in a tranquil riverside setting.
A brief summary to Cock Marsh
- Maidenhead, Cookham, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear waterproof footwear during wetter seasons as some paths can be muddy or flooded.
- Keep dogs on leads to protect grazing livestock and ground-nesting birds.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for capturing seasonal wildflowers.
- Visit the Bronze Age burial mounds to connect with the area's rich archaeological heritage.
- Check local weather and tide conditions if planning to explore the riverside paths extensively.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus route 37 from Maidenhead to Cookham Village, with a journey time of approximately 25-35 minutes. The nearest stop is Cookham Village Memorial, a 15-minute walk from Cock Marsh. Buses run regularly but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. Tickets cost around £3-£5.
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Cycling
Cycle from Maidenhead via National Cycle Network Route 52 to Cookham, a 20-30 minute ride on mostly flat terrain. Note that cycling is not permitted on the Cock Marsh footpaths, so secure your bike before walking the reserve.
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Car
Drive to Cookham Moor National Trust car park, approximately 10-15 minutes from Maidenhead by car. Parking is limited and may require a small fee. The walk from the car park to Cock Marsh is about 20 minutes on flat, accessible paths.
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Walking
From Cookham village center, a pleasant 25-35 minute walk along well-maintained riverside paths leads to Cock Marsh. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for pushchairs, though some sections may be uneven after rain.
Cock Marsh location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cock Marsh
Ecological Diversity on the Thames Floodplain
Cock Marsh is a unique 18.3-hectare (45-acre) nature reserve located north of Maidenhead in Berkshire. This area is distinguished by its remarkable variety of grassland habitats, including chalk grasslands, wet grasslands, and acidic meadows, all shaped by its proximity to the River Thames. These diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, making Cock Marsh a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its biological importance. The marsh's ponds and seasonal flooding create dynamic wetland conditions that foster rare and vulnerable plants such as brown galingale (Cyperus fuscus), which thrives in disturbed wet areas. Grazing by horses, cattle, and rabbits plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the grasslands by controlling vegetation growth and encouraging biodiversity. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of breeding waders and overwintering birds that find sanctuary here.Ancient Burial Mounds and Archaeological Significance
Beyond its natural wonders, Cock Marsh holds significant archaeological interest. The site contains a scheduled monument comprising four Bronze Age burial mounds, or round barrows, situated on flat land near the river. These earthworks date back thousands of years and were excavated in the late 19th century, revealing human remains, pottery, flint tools, and remnants of funeral feasts. The largest mound, originally about 90 feet across and eight feet high, still stands prominently, connecting visitors to the ancient peoples who once inhabited the region. Later Anglo-Saxon burials also took place here, underscoring the site's long-standing cultural importance.Scenic Walks and Tranquil Countryside Experience
Cock Marsh is part of the larger Maidenhead and Cookham Commons, lands gifted to the National Trust in the 1930s to preserve their natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy gentle riverside walks along well-maintained paths that pass through lush meadows and alongside grazing livestock. The landscape offers sweeping views of the Thames Valley and opportunities to observe seasonal wildlife. The marsh’s accessibility and mostly flat terrain make it suitable for families and those with pushchairs, providing a peaceful retreat from urban life. Nearby amenities include seating areas and information boards that enhance the visitor experience.Conservation Efforts and Habitat Management
Ongoing conservation at Cock Marsh focuses on protecting its rare plant species and maintaining the delicate balance of its wetland habitats. The grazing regime is carefully managed to simulate natural processes that sustain the ecosystem. Seasonal pond flooding and drying cycles are monitored to support the diverse plant communities, including water violets and marsh pennywort. Efforts by the National Trust and local conservation groups ensure that Cock Marsh remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a place where visitors can connect with nature and history responsibly.Community Connection and Recreational Value
Cock Marsh and the surrounding commons have long been integral to local life, hosting village events and providing open green space for recreation. The area is dog-friendly, though visitors are advised to keep dogs on leads near grazing animals. The riverside path leads past landmarks like the historic Bounty pub, adding to the charm and appeal of the walk. This blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and community spirit makes Cock Marsh a cherished destination for both locals and visitors seeking a serene outdoor experience.Wildlife Watching and Seasonal Highlights
Throughout the year, Cock Marsh offers changing spectacles of wildlife. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and active birdlife, while autumn and winter attract overwintering species. The ponds and marshes are especially vibrant during wetter seasons, providing excellent opportunities for nature photography and mindful observation. Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, appreciating the subtle rhythms of this remarkable riverside habitat.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Virgin Experience Days
0.8 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
6.1 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Burning Bush
11.8 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Sydney Camm Memorial
12.1 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
12.6 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
12.6 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
12.6 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Queen Victoria Statue
12.8 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
12.8 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
12.8 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
King Edward III Tower
12.8 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
12.9 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
13.0 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Ancient well
13.0 km
A humble medieval water source steeped in Windsor's royal heritage and local legend.
Soldier's Statue
13.0 km
A solemn tribute to Irish Guardsmen, this statue in Windsor honors military service amidst a rich historic townscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Stanley Spencer Gallery
1.8 km
Discover the world’s largest collection of Stanley Spencer’s art in the charming village that inspired his visionary works.
River Thames
2.1 km
Discover the River Thames, London’s historic and scenic river weaving through iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural life.
Cliveden House
2.8 km
A storied Italianate mansion overlooking the Thames, where centuries of glamour and intrigue unfold across 376 acres of magnificent gardens.
National Trust - Cliveden
2.8 km
Explore Cliveden’s majestic gardens, historic house, and woodlands on a grand Thames Valley estate rich in heritage and natural beauty.
Odds Farm Park
3.5 km
Discover hands-on animal encounters, outdoor adventures, and giant indoor play at Odds Farm Park, a family favorite near High Wycombe.
Marlow Lock
3.6 km
Historic lock and weir on the River Thames offering scenic riverside walks and a glimpse into centuries of river navigation heritage.
Higginson Park
4.1 km
A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.
Marlow Museum
4.1 km
Discover Marlow’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and passionate volunteer storytelling in a charming riverside setting.
Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex
4.2 km
A historic riverside park in Marlow blending natural beauty, leisure facilities, and family-friendly activities along the iconic Thames Path.
Ray Mill Island
4.6 km
Discover peaceful riverside walks, wildlife, and family-friendly charm at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead’s scenic Thames corridor.
Boulters Lock
4.8 km
Historic Thames lock and serene riverside gardens offering scenic boat watching, wildlife, and a vibrant pub atmosphere in Maidenhead.
Maidenhead Heritage Centre
5.9 km
Explore Maidenhead’s rich local history and wartime aviation legacy at the welcoming Heritage Centre on Park Street.
Grenfell Park
6.1 km
A historic community park in Maidenhead with playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor gym, café, and scenic green spaces for all ages.
Church Square
6.5 km
Historic heart of High Wycombe where timeless architecture meets vibrant community life and cultural events.
Bekonscot Model Village & Railway
6.6 km
Step into the world’s oldest model village and railway, where 1930s rural England comes alive in exquisite miniature detail across 1.5 acres of gardens.
Essential places to dine
The Cliveden Dining Room
2.7 km
Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.
The Ivy Marlow Garden
4.0 km
Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.
Vanilla Pod
4.2 km
Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.
Bespoke Restaurants
6.4 km
Elegant dining in Beaconsfield’s historic Old Rectory, where bespoke cuisine meets timeless charm.
The Waterside Inn
7.4 km
Experience timeless French haute cuisine and riverside elegance at The Waterside Inn, Bray’s iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel.
The Hinds Head
7.5 km
A Michelin-starred British pub in Bray blending traditional charm with Heston Blumenthal’s innovative culinary artistry.
The Fat Duck
7.5 km
Experience a groundbreaking, theatrical tasting journey at The Fat Duck, where culinary science meets nostalgic storytelling in a historic Bray inn.
The Restaurant at Danesfield House
7.7 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house with stunning views of the Thames and Chiltern Hills near Marlow.
King & Lamb Restaurant
10.4 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house setting with superb roasts, vegan options, and a tranquil garden atmosphere.
GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
11.2 km
South African-inspired dining with stunning marina views at Windsor Racecourse Marina, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
The Greene Oak
11.2 km
A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.
The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse
11.2 km
Experience luxury dining with panoramic racecourse views at The Castle Restaurant, where thrilling horse racing meets elegant cuisine in Windsor.
The Three Oaks
11.4 km
A Michelin Bib Gourmand gastropub blending modern British cuisine with Asian flair in a charming Tudor-style setting.
Test Kitchen Food
12.2 km
Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.
Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse
12.4 km
Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
5.8 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
John Lewis & Partners
6.1 km
A trusted British department store blending quality, style, and service in the heart of High Wycombe’s Cressex Centre.
Ruby Moon
6.5 km
Explore the mystical world of crystals and unique gifts at Ruby Moon, High Wycombe’s beloved metaphysical emporium since 1998.
Bucks House
12.0 km
Discover timeless ladies’ fashion and personalized service at Bucks House, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Chalfont Saint Giles.
Gifts Box
12.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Purple Gifts
12.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor
12.6 km
Centuries of curated treasures in Windsor's most distinguished antique shop.
Middle Ward Shop
12.6 km
Royal souvenirs and gifts within Windsor Castle's historic Middle Ward.
Jigsaw
12.6 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
12.6 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
Piara
12.6 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
H&M
12.6 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Oliver Bonas
12.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
A P Souvenirs & Gifts
12.7 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
Whistles
12.7 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Brewery
4.0 km
A vibrant Marlow pub with great beers, lively sports screens, and welcoming service for all occasions.
The Oarsman, Marlow
4.0 km
Sophisticated gastropub in Marlow blending seasonal British cuisine, curated wines, and warm hospitality in a stylish setting.
The Botanist Marlow
4.2 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Marlow, alive with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and vibrant live music every weekend.
The Boathouse at Boulters Lock
4.8 km
Riverside gastropub on Boulters Lock Island offering seasonal British cuisine, stunning river views, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
Off The Tap
5.8 km
Lively Maidenhead pub offering craft beers, tasty pub fare, and vibrant events in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.
The Royal Standard of England
6.0 km
Step into England’s oldest freehouse, where 900 years of royal history, ghostly legends, and timeless ale await in a charming rural setting.
The Treehouse
6.3 km
A vibrant bar in Beaconsfield known for quality cocktails, friendly service, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Snug Bar High Wycombe
6.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in High Wycombe offering over 100 fresh cocktails, lively atmosphere, and great happy hour deals in a spacious, stylish setting.
The Hit or Miss
9.3 km
A cozy country pub in Amersham offering hearty British fare and friendly service in a charming village setting.
Milaanj at The Beehive Pub & Restaurant
10.6 km
Discover Milaanj at The Beehive: a rustic village pub in White Waltham serving exquisite British-Indian fusion cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
La planchette
12.6 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Royal Windsor
12.6 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
Upstairs Windsor
12.6 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
All Bar One Windsor
12.6 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
12.6 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
