Warley Place Nature Reserve: A Historic Garden Transformed into a Wildlife Haven
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
Warley Place Nature Reserve, located in Great Warley near Brentwood, Essex, is a 25-acre site once home to renowned horticulturalist Ellen Willmott’s Edwardian gardens. Now managed by Essex Wildlife Trust, it offers visitors a unique blend of historic garden remnants and diverse wildlife habitats, featuring spring blooms, mature trees, and a variety of bird and butterfly species. Open daily during daylight hours, it provides a tranquil escape with scenic walking paths and rich natural heritage.
A brief summary to Warley Place Nature Reserve
- Warley Rd, Brentwood, Great Warley, CM13 3HU, GB
- +441621862960
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is hilly in places but paths are generally dry and well-maintained.
- Visit in spring to see spectacular displays of daffodils, bluebells, and other seasonal flowers.
- Park at The Thatchers Arms pub nearby if the reserve’s small car park is full.
- Be cautious around old garden ruins due to hidden cellars and water holes.
- Bring binoculars and a camera for birdwatching and photographing the scenic landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Arriva bus service from Brentwood town center to Great Warley, which runs approximately every 30 minutes. The journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes. From the bus stop, it is about a 15-minute walk to Warley Place. Tickets cost approximately £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Brentwood town center to Warley Place takes about 10 to 15 minutes via local roads. There is a small car park at the reserve and additional parking at The Thatchers Arms pub nearby. Parking is free but limited, so early arrival is recommended.
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Walking
For those staying locally, walking to Warley Place is possible with routes from Great Warley village taking 20 to 30 minutes over gently hilly terrain. Paths are well maintained but include some slopes, so suitable footwear is advised.
Warley Place Nature Reserve 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 Warley Place Nature Reserve
A Legacy of Botanical Passion and Garden Design
Warley Place Nature Reserve is steeped in horticultural history as the former garden of Ellen Willmott, a leading Edwardian horticulturalist celebrated for cultivating over 100,000 plant species worldwide. The 25-acre site, south of Brentwood in Essex, was once an elaborate garden showcasing exotic plants and mature trees, including a striking line of sweet chestnuts. Though the original gardens fell into decline during the 20th century, the Essex Wildlife Trust took stewardship in 1977, restoring the area to preserve its botanical legacy while adapting it as a nature reserve.Flora and Fauna Through the Seasons
Visitors to Warley Place can witness a spectacular display of spring flowers such as daffodils, snowdrops, crocuses, bluebells, magnolias, camellias, and winter aconites. The reserve’s varied habitats support a rich diversity of wildlife, including woodland birds like the nuthatch and numerous meadow and woodland butterflies. The reserve also provides important bat habitats, reflecting its role as a sanctuary for both flora and fauna. The terrain is gently hilly with well-maintained paths that remain mostly dry, allowing enjoyable walks year-round.Historic Ruins and Garden Features
Remnants of the original Edwardian house and garden structures remain scattered throughout the reserve, offering a glimpse into its past grandeur. Visitors can explore decaying walls, hidden cellars, and a quaint wooden bridge, all set amidst mature trees and naturalized garden areas. These features create an atmospheric setting that blends history and nature, ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The reserve is open daily during daylight hours, typically from 10am to 5pm, with free entry. Access is adjacent to The Thatchers Arms pub, where parking is available. While there are no toilets on site, there is an information hut partway through the reserve and a small bird hide stocked with identification books. The paths are suitable for casual walkers but do include some hills, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Visitors are advised to be cautious around certain areas due to hidden hazards like water holes and old cellars.Conservation and Community Involvement
Warley Place is maintained by an enthusiastic team of volunteers under the Essex Wildlife Trust’s guidance, focusing on habitat restoration and wildlife conservation. The reserve exemplifies sustainable management practices, balancing public access with protection of sensitive environments. Its role as a local nature reserve contributes to biodiversity preservation in the region and offers educational opportunities about native species and garden heritage.A Year-Round Natural Retreat
While spring is a highlight for floral displays, Warley Place offers interest throughout the year with changing foliage, birdwatching, and peaceful woodland walks. Its combination of historic charm and vibrant ecosystems makes it a distinctive destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a serene outdoor experience close to Brentwood.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laindon War Memorial
9.9 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Falklands Island Monument
13.3 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
The Gypsy Stone
19.0 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
19.2 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
National Trust - Rayleigh Mount
22.1 km
Explore the historic Rayleigh Mount Castle in Essex, offering stunning views, rich heritage, and a perfect day out amidst beautiful landscapes.
River Lee Navigation
22.2 km
Experience the tranquility of River Lee Navigation, a scenic waterway offering picturesque views, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities in the heart of England.
Rayleigh Windmill
22.2 km
Experience the enchanting history and scenic beauty at Rayleigh Windmill, a heritage gem perfect for families and history buffs alike.
Hadleigh Park
22.3 km
Experience the beauty and recreation of Hadleigh Park, a country park with BMX tracks, lakes, and historical landmarks, perfect for all ages.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
23.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
Danbury Country Park
23.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Danbury Country Park in Essex, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families seeking adventure.
Hadleigh Castle
23.1 km
Discover Hadleigh Castle, a historical gem in Essex with breathtaking views and rich heritage, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Cutty Sark
23.2 km
Step aboard the world's fastest tea clipper, suspended in time above Greenwich's Thames, where echoes of ocean races and salty decks invite maritime dreams.
Anchor Iron Wharf
23.2 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
23.5 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
The Gibberd Garden
23.7 km
Discover The Gibberd Garden in Harlow, a beautiful park blending art and nature for a serene retreat and memorable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thorndon Country Park
2.5 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
Weald Country Park
3.4 km
Explore 520 acres of historic Essex parkland with deer, lakes, play trails, and scenic walking and cycling routes for all ages.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
4.0 km
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
4.7 km
A vibrant family farm and fun park in Brentwood, blending hands-on animal encounters with thrilling rides and indoor play for all ages.
Thorndon Country Park South
4.9 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
Barnards Miniature Railway
6.0 km
A charming 7¼ inch gauge miniature railway on a working farm near Brentwood, perfect for families and rail enthusiasts on select days from spring to winter.
Bedfords Park
6.5 km
Explore 215 acres of historic parkland with red deer, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views over East London and Kent.
Havering Museum Ltd
7.6 km
Discover the rich local history of Havering in the charming former Romford Brewery, where community heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
UnHenged
7.9 km
Explore Romford’s unique concrete Stonehenge replica, blending prehistoric inspiration with modern art in a tranquil meadow setting.
Mountnessing Windmill
8.4 km
Historic 1807 post mill in Essex, fully restored and working, offering heritage milling and scenic village charm.
Langdon Nature Discovery Park
8.4 km
Explore Essex’s largest inland nature reserve with diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and a welcoming Nature Discovery Centre.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
8.7 km
Explore the vast underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath a modest Essex bungalow, revealing Britain's secret nuclear defense history.
Belhus Woods Country Park
8.8 km
Explore ancient woodlands, tranquil lakes, and historic landscapes in this accessible South Essex country park rich with wildlife and heritage.
Cater Museum
9.7 km
Discover Billericay’s heritage at the quaint Cater Museum, where local history comes alive in a charming High Street setting.
Ingatestone Hall
10.3 km
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
Essential places to dine
Alec's Restaurant
6.8 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Dukes Head Billericay
9.0 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
The Magic Mushroom
11.1 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
Hoop at Stock
13.4 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Bartellas Restaurant
13.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
The Cart Shed Restaurant
17.4 km
A rustic yet refined British dining experience in the tranquil village of Thornwood near Epping, blending seasonal local produce with countryside charm.
Aspera
18.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting in Benfleet.
The New London
19.4 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Acanteen
19.9 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
20.0 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Russells Restaurant
20.0 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
20.1 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Cosy Club
20.1 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
20.2 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
The Chequers Matching Green
20.5 km
A charming gastro-pub overlooking Matching Green’s cricket pitch, blending traditional English village charm with modern dining comfort.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Minnie's Boutique
2.8 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
French Quarter
2.8 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
2.8 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Blush Boutique Essex
16.6 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
16.8 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Unique Store
18.1 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Riverside Retail Park
20.7 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Factory Shops
22.2 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Gifts for All Home Decor
22.9 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Triangle Store
23.2 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
The Harvey Centre
23.4 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at The Harvey Centre, featuring diverse stores and a delicious food court in the heart of Harlow.
Painted hall gift shop
23.7 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
24.0 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
5b Greenwich Market
24.0 km
Historic covered market in London’s Greenwich with antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant World Heritage setting.
Arc Angel Boutique London
24.0 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Merchant Brentwood
2.8 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
Fête Lounge
5.0 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
Vertigo
5.9 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
7.9 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Top Oak Restaurant & Pub Essex Venue Hire Stapleford Abbotts
7.9 km
A charming Essex country pub blending rustic ambiance with contemporary comfort and classic British cuisine.
Cristi's Bar
9.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Harry's Bar
9.8 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
11.0 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
11.8 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
The Bear Inn - Stock
13.2 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Fox and Goose
15.2 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Bar People
15.3 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
Fox & Hounds
18.2 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Orange Tree
19.4 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Woolpack
19.8 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft Basildon
12.2 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Faces NightClub
15.1 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
16.6 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
17.4 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Club Tantalize
19.9 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
19.9 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
CQ LOUNGE
20.1 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Popworld - Chelmsford
20.1 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
LA Lounge
21.1 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
22.1 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
22.2 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Oliver's Jazz Bar
24.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
The Bunker
25.3 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
E1
25.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Hatch Club
25.9 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly