Things to do in Leigh-on-Sea Part Two
Given the recent news, it does beg the question what IS there to do in Leigh-on-Sea? Especially if you’re new to the area or, you’ve neglected what Leigh and the surrounding area have to offer you? Then join us for Part Two of our ‘Things to do in Leigh-on-Sea’ guide! This month, given the current climate and general mood, we thought we’d concentrate on what this great place can offer us health-wise?
Green spaces are vital to mental health. Never has that been so true and so needed as much as this year. Having access to green spaces can reduce health inequalities, improve well-being, and aid in the treatment of mental illness. Some analysis suggests that physical activity in a natural environment can help remedy mild depression and reduce physiological stress. With this, quite literally in mind, here is your guide to the green spaces in and surrounding Leigh-on-Sea:
Belfairs Woodland Centre
Part of the Essex Wildlife Trust; the county’s leading conservation charity, Belfairs Woodland Centre provides a visitor, community and education centre. This 1160-acre landscape, a third of which is woodland, includes a number of outstanding sites valuable for nature conservation. Much of the woodland is officially ‘ancient woodland’; some is more than 1,000 years old, making it the earliest woodland recorded in Essex. The Dormouse, Heath Fritillary butterfly, and Song Thrush are key species here, as is the unusual Wild Service tree. The woods are enjoyed by local residents and visitors for walking, cycling, horse riding, golf, and bowls.
https://www.essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/belfairs
Leigh Library Gardens
The library gardens are situated behind Leigh Library (prev. Leigh Rectory), residing on the upper part of the cliffs overlooking Leigh old town on The Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea. A hidden gem, this garden provides a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of Leigh-on-Sea life. There’s a small play area for children, plenty of picnic space, room for dog-walkers as well as the squirrel-loving Lower Library Gardens to spend time in. Throughout the year library gardens plays host to the Leigh Folk Festival, the May Fair and various other outdoor activities. If you’d like to become a Friend of Leigh Library Gardens and help maintain the beauty of this much-loved green space, then please contact Leigh Town Council.
Two Tree Island
Two Tree Nature Reserve is adjacent to the Thames Estuary and is a winter refuge for a huge variety of winter wildfowl and waders. Two Tree is a fantastic site for birdwatching, a variety of wildflowers and saltmarsh plant species grow here, such as Golden Samphire, Sea Purslane, Common Sea-lavender and Sea Aster. There are approximately 6km of walking trails which are a mixture of gravel and grass paths.
https://www.essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/two-tree-island
Chalkwell Park
Situated facing the London Road, Chalkwell Park is a spacious park consisting of a rose garden recognized by the National Rose Society, beautiful ornamental gardens, sporting grounds for cricket, football, basketball courts, a skate park, tennis courts, 2 children’s playgrounds, café and function room, courtyard style sun garden and home to Chalkwell Hall, a Grade II listed Georgian building dating back to 1830; now the site of arts organization, Metal.
Southchurch Gardens
Southchurch Hall Gardens is an important part of Southend-on-Sea’s rich history. The Hall itself is a Grade 1 listed building that dates back to the medieval times. The Gardens used to be known as the ‘Duck Park’ due to the vast and varied species of ducks and geese inhabiting the ponds. The park is home to some beautiful wildlife and plant life. Southchurch Hall has many events take place throughout the year often drawing on its medieval past history for inspiration.
https://www.southchurchhallgardens.co.uk/
Priory Park
Priory Park, on Victoria Avenue in Southend-on-Sea, covers 45 acres with a wide range of facilities for families, including a café, children’s playground, 4 bowling greens, tennis courts, basketball courts, formal gardens and the Priory Museum – originally forming part of a Cluniac Monastery, the Prittlewell Priory, that dates back to 1180 and is well worth a visit! The park plays host to a variety of events and concerts throughout the year.
For more information on the parks & green spaces surrounding our area, visit the Essex Wildlife Trust - a great source for local nature, woodlands you may have never known about locally. The one thing we can do is go for a walk, so why not take advantage this winter!