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Elmley National Nature Reserve – Hen Harrier Marsh Harrier Wader & Owl Photography (Kent)

Inside Elmleyby Elmley National Nature Reserve (Georgina & Gareth Botting — family farm)

Elmley is the UK's only independent National Nature Reserve — a 3300-acre family-run working farm on the Isle of Sheppey in North Kent. The 2-mile entry drive IS the wildlife experience — visitors use their cars as mobile hides (remain in vehicle). Highest concentration of breeding waders in lowland UK. Up to 200 marsh harrier winter roost — the largest UK roost. Five hides including Spitend Hide (3.5 miles east — surrounded by marsh harriers), Well Marsh Hide (wheelchair-accessible), and Rushy Common Hide. Photography workshops and exclusive hire of hides available. UNIQUE: the only National Nature Reserve in England where you can stay overnight — shepherd's huts cabins and farmhouse. 4WD safari tours with head warden at dusk for owls. National Geographic Traveller featured November 2025. 1 hour from London. Adults £10; RSPB members free.

Species

Months

  1. January, open
  2. February, open
  3. March, open
  4. April, open
  5. May, open
  6. June, open
  7. July, open
  8. August, open
  9. September, open
  10. October, open
  11. November, open
  12. December, open

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec