RSPB Rainham Marshes — Attraction in England

Great place to spot birds of varying habitats. You've got meadow, marsh, freshwater lakes, and, if you leave the reserve on return to the centre, the mudflats of the Thames Estuary where you will spot waders....some special ones that I'll leave for you to discover

To gain access to the reserve, you need to climb the stairs or the lift that is available for those with disabilites or whoever wants to save their legs. Once you're up there, I'd advise visiting the reception to sort out paying for entry and/or parking. If you're a member of the RSPB you get free entry and parking however, local residents (Rainham, Tilbury & Thurrock, I think) also get free entry, but I'm not sure about the parking.

From there, you go out the rear of the building and take a sloped bridge into the reserve, so no more stairs or lifts until you want to leave

If you need food and refreshments before or after your time spent birdwatching, the centre has a cafe where fresh food is served, hot and cold drinks plus good-looking cakes

Anything you find on RSPB's shopping site can be viewed and purchased from the shop while you're there

Also, there is a very helpful operative selling binoculars and scopes that you can try before you buy. Day hire of binoculars is also available at a small fee

Paths around the reserve are pretty tidy, some muddy puddles, but nothing a good pair of shoes/boots can't cope with

The hides are lovely, but seating is more like stalls rather than conventional benches. Each to their own, but I prefer old school benches. More suited for those that "like their own space"

I visited in early February and for this time of year I would recommend getting around quickly as although it says that the centre closes at 4PM, the staff start to close the hides between 2 & 2:30PM. I would imagine this will change when the days become longers

I spotted 39 different species of bird while I was there.....see how many...

We had a free pass to visit the RSPB Rainham Marshes and went to check it out with my avid bird spotting friend. We took a long stroll to the marshes from Rainham station which was nice apart from the rubbish and stench from the landfill site.

We got to the RSPB site and entered the beautiful visitors centre and was greeted by friendly staff. A nice place to have a snack and drink, vegan options available.

We then went on our not so circular walk around the place. Before writing this review I did go through other people's feedbacks to see if they shared similar experiences. The place was a bit dilapidated as mentioned by others and also a bit unkempt and overgrown, brambles growing across walkways etc , a bit if a hazard for elderly and young at times. Like a lot of reviews parts were blocked off and unreachable which has been mentioned a lot of times .

The most frustrating part was that virtually all the sign boards/ information boards had nothing on them. No directions or advice what way to go, no informative boards describing possible habitat and it's birds or insects that could be spotted. This really let the site down and is easily rectified and yet a few reviews have highlighted this issue before.

If I would have paid the £6.50 for non members I would have been a tad disappointed as I cannot fathom, apart from the visitors center, what I would be paying for. I think the RSPB do great work and a lot for the protection of our birds. However this experience has not inspired me to take out a membership with them as I have done with a couple of other animal/nature societies. I just feel the visitor experience needs to be appreciated a bit more to entice us to take out supporting memberships.

This is my opinion only and based on one visit...

Located just a short distance from the lively streets of London, Rainham Marshes near the A13 serves as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including birds, water voles, and dragonflies.

The sounds of nature, such as the cheerful chirping of birds, create a delightful atmosphere as you observe various species. Rainham Marshes offers ideal conditions for its inhabitants, and walking through the tall grass transports you into a serene wilderness, providing an exhilarating experience.

My children had a fantastic time there, and the tranquil surroundings added to the overall enjoyment, granting a sense of peace. You can also admire the riverside and watch the gentle flow of water. I highly recommend visiting this place if you need a break from the stresses of life; it’s a wonderful escape.

Additionally, it serves as an educational experience for children, allowing them to learn about wildlife. Entrance is free, although parking now costs £1 per hour, which I still find quite reasonable as the fees contribute to the maintenance of Rainham Marshes.

There is a café on-site for food purchases, but I prefer to bring my own, as café prices can be high. I have visited Rainham Marshes numerous times, and each visit has been rewarding. It remains one of my favorite spots to unwind from my...