Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Vange Marsh
VangeOpenSee opening timesDiscover the patchwork of wetland habitats at Vange Marsh in South Essex. The mixture of fresh and saltwater lagoons can get a little muddy – which means it’s the perfect spot for breeding Avocets, Common Terns, little Ringed Plovers, Lapwings and Reed Buntings.
About
Vange Marsh is a mosaic of wetlands whilst the best time to explore this site is from August where passage waders stop on their long migrations and Wigeons are regular visitors in winter.
Vange Marsh has nature trails and footpaths ready to explore. It’s a great place for birds and wildlife with something to discover all year round. There's plenty to see, including the resident cattle at various times throughout the year, who kindly graze and maintain the site. The reedbeds are managed in partnership with the Land Trust.
⚠ Please be aware: this site can be extremely muddy in areas, especially during Autumn and Winter making the ground very wet and slippery. The nature trails can also become uneven particularly where the cattle roam. Please take extra care when visiting. ⚠
At a glance
No on-site car parking. Nearest car park - Pitsea Train Station, Basildon SS16 4UD – please note there is a fee to park here.
There are no toilets here. Nearest RADAR scheme accessible toilets are at Pitsea railway station, and there are accessible facilities in Wat Tyler Country Park 0.5 miles (1.5km) from reserve.
There are no toilets here. Nearest facilities in Wat Tyler Country Park 0.5 miles (1.5km) from reserve.
All paths grass, with little change in gradient but uneven in some areas, and variable in width. Can become wet and muddy. Kissing gates with clearance of 990mm + at various intervals.
All paths grass, with little change in gradient but uneven in some areas, and variable in width. Can become wet and muddy. Kissing gates with clearance of 990mm + at various intervals.
There are no toilets here. The nearest toilets are at Pitsea railway station, or at Wat Tyler Country Park 0.5 miles (1.5km) from reserve.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Dogs are only allowed on public footpaths and bridleways. There are no dog waste bins on site so please come prepared to take your waste home with you.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Vange Marsh
southessex@rspb.org.uk Nearest address for Sat Nav, Pitsea Train Station, Basildon, Pitsea, Essex, SS16 4UD 01268 498620