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
Old Hall Marshes
Tolleshunt D'ArcyOpenSee opening timesExplore a watery world of mudflats, salt marsh and pools, alive with wildlife throughout the year. Look for Water Vole holes, hear the 'ping ping' of Bearded Tits, and watch Marsh Harriers soar over the reedbeds.
About
Old Hall Marshes is made up of extensive grazing marshes with brackish water fleets, reedbeds, saltmarsh and two off-shore islands.
A walk here will reveal many breeding species, including Avocets, Lapwings and Redshanks, while Pochards and Shovelers flock to the reserve during the winter. And our resident Bearded Tit are a joy to watch all year round. During migration, Marsh Harriers, Wheatears, Whinchats and waders can also be seen, making this the perfect spot for avid birdwatchers.
At a glance
Open, Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. Closed outside of these hours. 12 spaces. No height restriction. Two cycle racks.
Please do not park in the lane as it can restrict other traffic movements. When visiting the reserve, please drive slowly and with care along Old Hall Lane, particularly when negotiating the speed bumps around the Ship Ahoy farmhouse, as children are often playing outside.
We don't have any toilets here. The nearest public toilets are located 6 miles away in Tiptree, RADAR key accessed.
We don't have any baby changing facilities here. The nearest are located 6 miles away in Tiptree.
Nature trails access Two routes, both with gates, steps and stiles, unsuitable for pushchairs.
Short Walk is a 3 mile (5 km) circular route on natural grass paths and rough hardcore tracks. Two benches with arm rests along route.
Long Walk is a 6 mile (9.5 km) circular route round the sea wall. Both paths mainly flat, but sea wall ascent/descent by steps or gentle slope.
Nature trails access Two routes, both with gates, steps and stiles, unsuitable for wheelchairs.
We don't have any toilets here. The nearest public toilets are located 6 miles away in Tiptree.
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.
Please keep your dog on a lead and under close, effective control at all times, due to the sensitive wildlife, habitats and livestock here.
There are no dog waste bins on the reserve, we ask that you take the waste home with you to dispose of.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Old Hall Marshes
oldhallmarshes@rspb.org.uk Old Hall Marshes, Old Hall Ln, Maldon, Essex, CM9 8TP 01621 869015