Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

The huge expanse of Essex & Suffolk Water’s Abberton Reservoir plays host to some 40,000 wetland birds each year. The enhancement project is complete and with the concrete edges removed, the re-profiling work has left shallow muddy margins and large areas of rough grassland, providing the ultimate habitat for a plethora of wildlife and waterfowl. Visitors can enjoy walks on the Essex Wildlife Trust nature reserve. There are stunning panoramic views across the reservoir and surrounding villages from the higher ground and the bird hides offer superb views of the waters edge. The Visitor Centre offers a great viewing area, toilet facilities, and a well-stocked shop, including binoculars and telescopes, hot and cold drinks and snacks. The Visitor Centre is 6 miles SW of Colchester on the B1026 (a minor road linking Colchester and Maldon) just South of Layer de la Haye - follow the brown and white "Abberton Reservoir visitor centre" signs.