Elmley NNR
The NNR consists largely of flat, open grazing marsh at or below sea level but protected from the sea by clay walls.
County: Kent
Main habitats: Coastal
Area: 931 Ha
Site map: Nature on the Map
Although most NNRs are managed by Natural England, 88 are wholly or partly managed by other bodies approved by Council, under Section 35 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Elmley NNR is owned and managed by ECT (Conservation) Ltd and the RSPB.
The grazing marsh is divided by ditches that act as 'wet fences' for stock control. In winter and spring there is extensive shallow surface flooding.
The reserve is important for large numbers of wintering waterfowl and for birds of prey. Many different birds also breed at Elmley. The watercourses, seasonally wet ground and saltmarsh are also important for their plants and insect life.
Location and access
Elmley NNR is situated in Minster, Isle of Sheppey, Kent. There is no official car park and road side parking is common practice. There is a bus service which runs from Sheerness to Sittingbourne, which will stop on request at the top of the 3 km track leading to the reserve. This track also provides excellent birdwatching from vehicles, although there is no disabled access anywhere else on the reserve.
The reserve is open every day except Tuesdays from 9 am to 9 pm or sunset when earlier. Entrance is free to RSPB members.
The best time to visit the site is between November and March.
Facilities
The nearest toilet and refreshment facilities are available in Queensborough.
