Canvey Wick Nature Reserve
Details
Accessibility
Level access from public road into gravel car park. From car park there is a level gravel path taking you to the reserve. Access is available to most parts of the reserve if in a wheelchair but not all areas. Kissing gates into the reserve are very awkward if with a pushchair but can be opened for easier access by wheelchair users using a radar key - see photos.
As you'd expect in the reserve itself, whilst the area overall is generally flat and there are several old concrete roads giving access to many parts, there are also many areas of uneven ground and care is needed if you are at all unstable on foot. There are a number of circular sections of tarmac (old storage tank bases)
There is access for horse riders by phoning the RSPB visitor centre (off site) in advance; steps for mounting and dismounting horses are provided on either side of gate.
Dogs allowed on trails only and must be on lead
Brief description
A 93 hectare nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest formed from the brown field site of an oil refinery (the oil price crash of 1973 meant the refinery was abandoned and never opened). It is home to some of Britain's rarest insects including the shrill carder bee and the brown-banded carder bee. It is the UK's first brownfield bug reserve.
Address
Northwick Road, Canvey Island, Essex SS8 0PT
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Phone
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Website
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Directions
The Nature reserve is located on the west of the island.
From the A13, follow the signs to Canvey Island; From the A127 or A12, take the A130 towards Canvey. Once on Canvey Island, follow the A130 and signs to seafront and Industrial areas. Stay on A130 following signs and at the third roundabout (Northwick Corner) where you will see industrial buildings opposite as you reach the roundabout, take the third exit signposted towards the superstore, follow the signs towards the superstore, travel past the superstore (Morrisons) keeping on Northwick Road and in a general west direction towards the cemetery (It is signposted to the cemetery). The car park to the Reserve is immediately before you reach the cemetery and on your left side.
OS TQ 766837
Opening Times
Always check with the venue directly for up-to-date information including opening times and admission charges as they may be subject to change.
Nature trails are open from dawn to dusk.
The car park is open from 9am until 5pm/dusk (8pm-9pm in summer check local signs for closing times)
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day
Transport
For more travel information go to: http://www.travelinesoutheast.org.uk/ or phone 0871 200 2233 (calls are charged)
Nearest train station (approx. 3.7 miles away) is Benfleet on the C2C line from London Fenchurch Street to Southend/Shoeburyness
Take the no 21 bus from the station to Morrisons supermarket which is approx. 0.3 miles away (a 7-10 minute walk)
Amenities
Nearest toilets are at Morrisons supermarket, Costa Coffee and McDonald's to the east - approx. 7 - 10 minute walk from car park area.
Food and drinks available at Morrisons, McDonald's and Costa Coffee
Travel Information
For further travel information please see: www.traveline.info
Or call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33
(Calls cost 12p per minute plus your phone company's access charge)
Location
Nearest Venues
*Distances are calculated in a straight line from the current venue, please allow extra time/distance based on available paths or roads.