Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood (NT)
Recommended by
Overview
Here we have 214 acres of heath, gorse and coppice, encompassing a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); ancient woodland and military defences designed to give Napoleon a run for his money. For centuries, self-sufficient commoners under the Lord of the Manor's watchful eye came here to graze their domestic animals, cutting down scrub and trees for fuel and creating an open landscape. Today the land is carefully managed in a similar way using simulated grazing by tractor to encourage rare flora and fauna. From early times, Danbury's elevated position between the Crouch and Blackwater estuaries has been turned to strategic defence and used for army encampment. Explore Blakes Wood, an ancient woodland on a sloping site spanning 100 acres of clear streams, valleys, mighty oaks, chestnuts and coppiced hornbeam. In spring the woodland floor sees one of the best bluebell displays in the area, as well as primrose and yellow archangel.
About the area
Essex is full of pleasant surprises. It has the largest coastline of any county in England, with its fair share of castles, royal connections and scenic valleys.
Places to eat nearby View all
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
Pontlands Park
Pontlands Park is a Victorian country-house hotel situated in a peaceful rural location amid attractive landscaped grounds. The stylishly furnished bedrooms are generally quite spacious...
The Lion Inn
The Lion Inn offers stylish and comfortable accommodation; well-equipped with TVs, free WiFi and full air-conditioning, it appeals to leisure and business guests alike. Many rooms benef...
The County Hotel
A short walk from the rail and bus stations, and ten minutes from the city centre, the elegant County Hotel has an award-winning restaurant and bar, comfortable bedrooms, and banqueting...
Greenwoods Hotel & Spa
Greenwoods is a beautiful 17th-century, Grade II listed manor house set in extensive landscaped gardens. All bedrooms are tastefully appointed, with marble bathrooms and a wide range of...
Downham Hall
Set amidst the picturesque Essex countryside, Downham Hall offers a perfect blend of elegance and modern comfort. The bedrooms are individually appointed with stylish décor and a range ...
Osea Meadows
From safari tents to a hook-up pitch, Osea Meadows offers a wide range of glamping and camping options. With access to excellent coastal and inland walks for both walkers and cyclists, ...
Osea Leisure Park
Things have changed considerably at Osea Leisure Park, overlooking the Blackwater Estuary, since the 1930s when pea-pickers camped in fields here. Today, you can choose from luxury lodg...
Ivy Hill Hotel
The Ivy Hill Hotel is a smartly appointed hotel conveniently situated just off the A12. The spacious bedrooms are tastefully decorated, have co-ordinated fabrics and all the expected fa...
