RSPB Rainham Marshes

Situated less than 2 miles from the M25 and the Dartford River Crossing, Rainham Marshes is the RSPB's flagship reserve. It was purchased in 2000 and opened in November of 2006. The reserve consists of a large expanse of grazing marshes pinned between the River Thames and A13. In addition to over 3.5 miles of walkways, Rainham Marshes boasts an impressive visitor centre with cafe, toilets a well stocked shop, an outstanding view across the reserve and a playground for the kids.
Although still maturing, the site holds good number of wildfowl and waders. The pools held large numbers of Wigeon, Gadwall, Shoveller, Shelduck and a few Mallards. A Mute Swan and a handful of Canada Geese were present too. Large numbers of Lapwings regularly took to the skies and were joined around the pools and flooded fields by Little Egret and Snipe.
Around the visitor centre there are a number of feeders which were buzzing with finches such as Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch. Robins, Blue Tits, Great Tits, Dunnock and even a Reed Bunting waited for the Finch frenzy to subside.
One of Rainham's best loved, yet elusive residents is the Water Vole. Many of the waterways along the looped walks hold the country's largest vole and, on our return journey, we were treated to one nibbling his tea, much to the delight of the whole family.