KEY POINTS

1

A great start is to visit the Essex Wildlife Trust visitor centre to see what is around. Walk down to the first hide with a tern raft outside it.

2

Move on to the second hide, passing a Turtle Dove feeding area. Check out the wildfowl outside the hide.

3

This is often one of the best hides with a narrower stretch of water to cover. New hides are aimed at the developing reedbed here.

4

The Layer de la Haye causeway is a great place to see a 360° view of the reservoir and ideal for looking for waders, ducks and a big Cormorant colony. Try the viewing screen overlooking Wigborough Bay.

5

The Layer Breton causeway is a great place to view but beware of fast traffic and ducks and geese wanting food from you!

6

There is a footpath around the reservoir. One location, near St Andrews Church in Abberton, can be good, especially in autumn.