Discover the Serenity of Leigh National Nature Reserve
Explore the breathtaking Leigh National Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife and a perfect escape for nature lovers visiting Southend-on-Sea.
Leigh National Nature Reserve is a stunning natural escape located in Southend-on-Sea, perfect for tourists looking to explore diverse wildlife, serene landscapes, and picturesque walking trails. This reserve offers a tranquil environment for nature enthusiasts and families alike, making it an ideal destination for a day out.
A brief summary to Leigh National Nature Reserve
- Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, SS9 2GB, GB
- +441621862960
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars if you're interested in birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots throughout the reserve.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the trails and diverse terrains.
- Check the tide schedule before your visit for the best views of the estuary.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Leigh National Nature Reserve, start by heading to the A127 road from Southend-on-Sea. Follow the A127 until the junction with the A13 towards London. Continue on the A13 and take the exit for Leigh-on-Sea. Follow signs for Leigh-on-Sea and then for the Nature Reserve. The reserve is located at Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 2GB. There is limited parking available nearby, so be prepared to find street parking if the designated area is full. Note that there may be parking fees depending on the area.
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Public Transport
To reach Leigh National Nature Reserve via public transport, take the train from Southend Central or Southend Victoria stations towards London. Alight at Leigh-on-Sea station. From the station, head south on Leigh Road until you reach the seafront. Turn left along the promenade, and you will find the entrance to the Nature Reserve. The train fare may vary, so check the current prices for the journey. Ensure you check the train schedule for return times as well.
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Walking
If you are already in the Leigh-on-Sea area, you can walk to the Leigh National Nature Reserve. From the Leigh-on-Sea train station, walk south along Leigh Road, then turn left at the seafront promenade. Continue walking along the coast, and you will see signs for the Nature Reserve. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your pace and is a pleasant route with views of the sea.
Discover more about Leigh National Nature Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Two Tree Island
0.2 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Two Tree Island, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in the heart of England.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
5.6 km
Explore the rich history of Anglo-Saxon royalty at Prittlewell Princely Burial, a significant archaeological site in Southend-on-Sea, England.
Rayleigh Windmill
6.1 km
Explore Rayleigh Windmill, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, rich heritage exhibits, and a unique wedding venue in the heart of Essex.
Laindon War Memorial
15.1 km
Discover the Laindon War Memorial, a moving historical landmark honoring local heroes and their sacrifices in the heart of Laindon, Basildon.
Coalhouse Fort Park
16.0 km
Explore Coalhouse Fort Park, a perfect blend of historical marvels and scenic landscapes in East Tilbury, ideal for family outings and nature lovers.
Six Poor Traveller House
18.7 km
Discover the Six Poor Traveller House in Rochester, a historical landmark showcasing the essence of 17th-century hospitality and community spirit.
Barnards Miniature Railway
19.4 km
Discover the charm of Barnards Miniature Railway in Brentwood - a delightful attraction where whimsical train rides and community spirit await every visitor.
Tilbury Fort
20.2 km
Visit Tilbury Fort, a historic fortress along the River Thames, blending rich heritage with scenic views and immersive experiences for every traveler.
Danbury Country Park
20.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and recreational opportunities at Danbury Country Park, a scenic gem in Essex perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
21.2 km
Discover the Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower, a pivotal historical landmark showcasing Britain's early warning radar technology during WWII.
Ingatestone Hall
21.8 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Ingatestone Hall, a quintessential Tudor mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Combined Military Services Museum
22.3 km
Discover the fascinating military heritage of the UK at the Combined Military Services Museum, an engaging experience for history lovers.
Falklands Island Monument
22.4 km
Explore the Falklands Island Monument in Grays, a heartfelt tribute to the bravery of soldiers from the Falklands War, offering reflection and remembrance.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
23.0 km
Discover the historic charm and tranquility of St Mary Magdalene Church, an architectural gem in Cobham, Gravesend offering serene reflection.
Mountnessing Windmill
23.3 km
Experience the beauty and history of Mountnessing Windmill, a charming tourist attraction nestled in the picturesque English countryside.
Unmissable attractions to see
Model Aircraft Flying Field
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of flight at the Model Aircraft Flying Field on Two Tree Island, a perfect spot for aviation enthusiasts and families.
Belton Hills Nature Reserve
0.8 km
Explore the lush landscapes and breathtaking views of Belton Hills Nature Reserve in Leigh-on-Sea – a serene escape for nature lovers and tourists.
Leigh Heritage Centre & Museum
1.3 km
Explore the rich maritime history of Leigh-on-Sea at the Leigh Heritage Centre & Museum, a charming destination for all travelers.
Victoria Wharf
1.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Wharf, a beautiful park and garden in Leigh-on-Sea, perfect for relaxation and scenic views.
Hadleigh Castle
1.9 km
Explore the stunning ruins of Hadleigh Castle, a historic landmark in Essex, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into England's medieval past.
Essex Wildlife Trust Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre
2.3 km
Explore the enchanting Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre, a tranquil haven for nature lovers and families in Leigh-on-Sea, offering education and adventure.
Chalkwell Tidal Paddling Pool
2.7 km
Experience family-friendly leisure at Chalkwell Tidal Paddling Pool, a serene coastal gem in Westcliff-on-Sea perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
Hadleigh Park
2.9 km
Explore Hadleigh Park: A perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical charm in Benfleet, Essex.
Chalkwell Park
3.2 km
Explore Chalkwell Park: A lush green oasis in Westcliff-on-Sea perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and family fun amidst stunning gardens.
Eastwood Park
3.7 km
Explore Eastwood Park: A serene haven in Leigh-on-Sea, featuring stunning gardens, children's play areas, and picturesque walking paths for a perfect day out.
Fantasy Island
3.7 km
Experience the joy and excitement at Fantasy Island, a top amusement park in Canvey Island, Essex, perfect for family adventures and thrilling rides.
Westcliff-on-Sea Beach
4.0 km
Explore the stunning Westcliff-on-Sea Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and vibrant seaside culture in Southend-on-Sea.
Edwards Hall Park
4.5 km
Discover the picturesque Edwards Hall Park in Leigh-on-Sea, a tranquil country park perfect for outdoor leisure, family fun, and nature exploration.
Westcliff clifton parade
4.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Westcliff Clifton Parade, a scenic garden with panoramic estuary views, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls.
Talking post
4.8 km
Discover tranquility at Talking Post Garden, a lush oasis in Westcliff-on-Sea, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
Essential places to dine
The Dining Room
1.3 km
Experience traditional British cuisine with modern flair at The Dining Room in Leigh-on-Sea, where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Leigh Bistro Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience exceptional modern European cuisine at Leigh Bistro Restaurant in Leigh-on-Sea - perfect for brunch or fine dining enthusiasts.
La Quinta Restaurant & Venue Hire - Benfleet Essex
3.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at La Quinta Restaurant & Venue Hire in Benfleet - where fine dining meets unforgettable events.
Toulouse Restaurant
3.6 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine at Toulouse Restaurant in Westcliff-on-Sea, where every meal is crafted with passion and local ingredients.
Oyster Creek Kitchen
3.9 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Oyster Creek Kitchen with stunning views along Westcliff-on-Sea's picturesque coastline.
Padrino Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
4.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Padrino Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria in Westcliff-on-Sea – where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy.
Prowse Restaurant
4.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Prowse Restaurant in Westcliff-on-Sea – where local flavors meet exquisite dining experiences.
Piccolo
4.2 km
Savor exquisite Italian flavors at Piccolo - a charming restaurant in Westcliff-on-Sea offering authentic dishes and delightful ambiance.
Il Mondo Southend
4.4 km
Experience exquisite Italian and Mediterranean cuisine at Il Mondo Southend, where every meal is complemented by live music and vibrant atmosphere.
Great Tides Restaurant & Bar
4.6 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine with stunning coastal views at Great Tides Restaurant & Bar in Westcliff-on-Sea.
The Sunflower Bistro
5.2 km
Discover the delightful flavors of British cuisine at The Sunflower Bistro in Westcliff-on-Sea—your cozy culinary retreat.
La Petite Petanque
5.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Petite Petanque in Southend-on-Sea's beautiful Cambridge Square Gardens.
Brickhouse
5.4 km
Experience mouth-watering barbecue and gourmet burgers at Brickhouse, the culinary hotspot in Southend-on-Sea offering great food at reasonable prices.
The Mews
5.4 km
Discover The Mews in Southend-on-Sea: A charming pub offering exquisite French cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
ASK Italian
5.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at ASK Italian in Southend-on-Sea - where gluten-free delights meet traditional flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Latham Street
1.6 km
Experience the charm of vintage fashion at Latham Street, Leigh-on-Sea's premier destination for unique clothing and timeless treasures.
Store Thirty3
1.6 km
Explore Store Thirty3 in Leigh-on-Sea for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of this charming seaside town.
La Luna Boutique
1.8 km
Experience unique, stylish women's fashion at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea, where elegance meets individuality in every piece.
A Touch Too Wild
2.0 km
Discover elegance and style at A Touch Too Wild, Leigh-on-Sea's premier ladies' clothes shop for couture, formal and wedding attire.
Gifts for All Home Decor
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and home decor at Gifts for All Home Decor, a charming shop in Hadleigh, perfect for finding special souvenirs.
Sally's Out Of Curiosity
3.7 km
Discover a world of history and charm at Sally's Out Of Curiosity, Westcliff-on-Sea's premier antique shop filled with unique treasures.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
3.9 km
Explore Argosy Toys & Gifts in Westcliff-on-Sea, a delightful shop full of unique toys and gifts perfect for all ages.
Eliza Boutique
4.2 km
Discover unique fashion and personalized service at Eliza Boutique, the premier ladies' clothing shop in Westcliff-on-Sea.
The Happy Sole
4.3 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
Hobbycraft Southend
5.0 km
Unleash your creativity at Hobbycraft Southend, the ultimate destination for arts and crafts enthusiasts visiting Southend-on-Sea.
ideal gift shop
5.2 km
Explore the Ideal Gift Shop in Westcliff-on-Sea for unique souvenirs and charming gifts that capture the heart of your travels.
Africa Crafts Centre
5.3 km
Explore the vibrant world of African crafts and culture at the Africa Crafts Centre in Southend-on-Sea, a treasure trove of unique gifts and art.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
5.3 km
Explore the stylish world of designer and vintage clothing at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea, where fashion meets quality.
That's Bizarre
5.4 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky souvenirs at That's Bizarre in Southend-on-Sea, a must-visit for every traveler looking for something special.
Santas Surprise Letter
5.4 km
Discover the magic of gifting at Santas Surprise Letter, a whimsical shop in Southend-on-Sea filled with unique treasures and holiday charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Kitchen
1.4 km
Discover a vibrant cocktail bar in Leigh-on-Sea, offering creative drinks, delicious tapas, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for every occasion.
Ten Green Bottles
1.6 km
Discover the charm of Ten Green Bottles in Leigh-on-Sea, where quirky decor meets an exceptional selection of local drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Peggy’s Music Bar Ltd
2.4 km
Peggy’s Music Bar Ltd in Leigh-on-Sea: A lively destination for music lovers, offering great drinks and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Trading Room Bar & Kitchen
3.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of pub culture, delicious cuisine, and live music at The Trading Room Bar & Kitchen in Westcliff-on-Sea.
Park Tavern Southend-on-Sea
5.0 km
Discover the charm of Park Tavern in Southend-on-Sea, a lively pub offering delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and a great selection of drinks.
The Cliff
5.0 km
Discover the charm of The Cliff Pub, a vibrant coastal retreat in Southend-on-Sea, offering stunning views, delicious pub fare, and lively entertainment.
The Olde Trout Tavern
5.2 km
Experience the charm of The Olde Trout Tavern, a traditional English pub in Southend-on-Sea, offering delicious cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
View Bar
5.2 km
Discover the vibrant View Bar in Southend-on-Sea, where stunning views and delightful drinks create unforgettable memories.
Aloha Lounge
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Aloha Lounge, a tropical cocktail bar in Southend-on-Sea offering exotic drinks and delicious food in a lively atmosphere.
SWITCH
5.4 km
Discover the energetic vibes and exquisite cocktails at SWITCH, a premier cocktail bar in Southend-on-Sea.
The Alex
5.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at The Alex, your go-to pub in Southend-on-Sea for food, drinks, and sports.
SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
5.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance and extensive drink selection at SAKS BAR SOUTHEND, a top pub in Southend-on-Sea, perfect for socializing and relaxation.
The Hush Bar
5.4 km
Experience the inviting charm of The Hush Bar in Southend-on-Sea, where affordable drinks meet a cozy atmosphere for unforgettable moments.
The Dickens
5.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at The Dickens, a lively pub and nightclub in Southend-on-Sea, perfect for locals and tourists alike.
Infinity Showbar
5.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Infinity Showbar in Southend-on-Sea, where stunning performances and crafted cocktails create unforgettable memories.
