Nature Walks in the East of England

Much of the landscape in my home region of the East of England is defined by its flatness, which makes for accessible walking.

This area contains unique habitats, including the rare Fens of Cambridgeshire and Norfolk. Nearby Holme Fen is the lowest point below sea level in Great Britain.

While the region is rich with quiet woodlands and wetlands, its proximity to the coast allows for day trips to varied shorelines.

For more dramatic landscapes and different wildlife, I often travel further north to the coasts of Yorkshire and Northumberland, where the scenery is a distinct contrast to home.

These trips offer chances to see species that do not typically travel this far south, such as Puffins and Eider ducks.

This section gathers the walk reports and location guides from my local area and from these trips further afield.

Explore by County

Cambridgeshire

The Fens are a defining feature of this county, offering a unique habitat for a wide range of birds and wildlife throughout the year. It is home to RSPB Nene Washes, a key site for wintering birds, RSPB Fowlmere with its rare chalk stream habitat and of, course the Fens. 

East Yorkshire

The coastline here is marked by towering chalk cliffs and unique landforms like Spurn Point. It is one of the best places in the country to witness vast seabird colonies and seasonal bird migration.

Norfolk

This county is known for the Broads and its own expanse of Fenland. It is the only place in the UK to see the native Swallowtail butterfly, particularly at sites like Strumpshaw Fen.

Northamptonshire

As the former home of the great Rockingham Forest, this county retains significant ancient woodlands and wetlands. It includes locations like Fermyn Woods, one of the few places in the UK to find the Purple Emperor butterfly.

Rutland

Best known for Rutland Water, an internationally important wetland and wildfowl reserve. The successful reintroduction of the Osprey here offers a remarkable wildlife spectacle.

Featured Walks and Reserves

These are a few standout locations that offer a memorable experience of the region's wildlife.

  • RSPB Bempton Cliffs, Yorkshire A trip to witness the seabird cities on the chalk cliffs, home to thousands of Puffins, Gannets, and Guillemots during the breeding season.
  • Spurn Point, Yorkshire A walk along the unique and ever-changing landform of Spurn Point, documenting the birds and wildlife encountered during the autumn migration.
  • Nene Washes, Cambridgeshire An account of a visit to the Fens in winter, watching a spectacular sunrise and seeing Short-Eared Owls and Whooper Swans.
  • Strumpshaw Fen, Norfolk A visit to the Norfolk Broads with the goal of finding and photographing the rare Swallowtail butterfly.

Each of these locations offers something different throughout the seasons. The only way to see what's waiting is to step outside.

Photo of Carol

About the Author

For me, it’s never been just about bird names or camera settings. It’s about the quiet thrill of understanding the story unfolding in front of you. The moment a "weed" becomes a butterfly nursery, or a distant speck resolves into a hunting kestrel.

My camera is the tool I use to capture that magic, but my real passion is sharing it. This site is my digital field notebook, my collection of trips, and my invitation to you to stop, look a little closer, and find your own connection to the incredible nature on our doorstep.

Read more about me

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