Somewhere quiet in Essex?

[redwing210]

I don't want to join in with dog bashing however...as mentioned in a similar post dogs often disturb wildlife I am viewing, I just wondered if anyone can recomend anywhere (woods, parks etc.) in Essex where dogs are not allowed.

Cheers
Redwing.

[Brocker]

Unfortunately Redwing210, I am in the same boat as you. I live in Essex and struggle to find a dog free environment. The best place I have found so far is Weald Country Park. Although there is no stipulation on dogs, the park is so vast, it gives plenty of fields, lakes and woodland to walk in. The lakes are teeming with wildfowl and there are fallow deer as well. The other place is Epping Forest which is one of the best woodlands I have walked in. Other places you may wish to try are a walk along the River Chelmer, as it heads out towards the A12 and beyond and of course all the coastal walks around Foulness and Potton Island. The other option is to obtain permission from a few farmers to wander their land. I have found many that were happy to allow me to do this as long as I provided information to them around crop damage or broken fences etc. . . Good luck with your quest

[redwing210]

Thanks Brocker, the farm idea sounds interesting, did you know the farmer or did you just approach him? If so did you just ask permission to photograph on his land?

I think I have a stereotype in my head 'Get off my land' and sounds of a shotgun!!

Redwing

[Brocker]

My first encounter with a farmer was at the Salvation Army farm in Hadleigh. He was more than happy to let me wander around. He liked the idea of me taking photos as it is very non obtrusive. In fact I gave a photo of the nearby Hadleigh Castle as a gift and he had it framed. Since then, that gave me the confidence to ask at many other farms across Essex. I have had only two say no. They all liked the idea of taking photos and some were actually very obliging and told me where and when certain animals could be seen ...

[Brocker]

Where in Essex are you? I have a great place for Badgers!!! Let me know if you are interested

[redwing210]

Am in Hornchurch...

[Brocker]

I know of a walk not a million miles from you near Wickford. Very quiet, got a little bit of history around it, got some old derelict buildings, if you like that kind of photography (good to convert to black and white), and has good strong signs of badger activity. I have to go now but PM me tomorrow and I can give you some details of this secluded area.