Leigh NNR
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.
County: Essex
Main habitats: Coastal
Area: 257 Ha
Site map: Nature on the Map
Leigh NNR is managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust.
The flats have a dense, vigorous growth of eel grass species which, together with their invertebrate populations, support large numbers of dark-bellied Brent geese and waders such as grey plovers and knots.
The saltmarshes are noted for their plant-life, in particular the five species of glasswort that grow there. The lower marshes are home to sea aster, small cord-grass, common cord-grass and glasswort species, while the upper marshes are dominated by sea purslane.
The best months to visit the site are February, September and October.
Location and access
The reserve is adjacent to the town of Leigh-on-Sea and approximately five km to the west of Southend-on-Sea. Road access is from minor roads via the A13. The nearest train station is Leigh-on-Sea (less than one km from the site).
Leigh NNR encompasses Leigh Sands (an intertidal area) as far south as a channel called Ray Gut, and also included the eastern half of Two Tree Island.The island is the only part of the reserve that is accessible.
Facilities
Toilet and refreshment facilities are available in Leigh-on-Sea. Two Tree Island has car-parking facilities, picnic areas, birdwatching hides and a nature trail. Leaflets are available on site and there are information panels and signs.
