HORNDON COUNTRY PARK
Tis an ancient woodland and historic deer park, which dates from the 15th Century. It is on the southern outskirts of Brentwood and the parkland was influenced by landscape architect, Capability Brown. Its tranquil woodlands attract many migrant and overwintering birds. The main stars include Lesser Redpolls, Bramblings in winter, and Siskins. The several hundred-acre park comprises both broad leaf and coniferous trees, which attract a wide variety of birds all year round. Usually the woodlands are at their best visually in both spring, with flowering bluebells and anemones, and autumn, with vibrant leaf colours. The park comprises two sections linked together by pastures and rare heathland. These areas between the woodlands are being restored with the assistance of sheep and goats. Childerditch Pond, a haven for water birds, can be found in the heart of the parkland. These areas particularly attract warblers and also thrushes. Essex County Council manage Thorndon Country Park and the countryside centre is run by the Essex Wildlife Trust. The centre offers information displays, gifts and refreshments. Once you get away from the main trails close to the centre and the infamous Gruffalo Trail, there are plenty of birds to be seen and heard.