Discover South Woodham Ferrers’ Wonderful Parks

For July, we have been able to spotlight not one but three fantastic green spaces. Saltcoats Park, Compass Gardens and Frankland Fields Local Nature Reserve, in South Woodham Ferrers each have their own unique areas which make them ideal for a visit. Whether you’re searching for a place to visit as a family, somewhere to sit and relax on your own, or a new exercise space, there’s something for everyone at these green spaces!

Frankland Fields Local Nature Reserve is a quiet, open space to explore. Walking through this green space, you will find open grassland areas which attract a host of insects. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for pollinators and butterflies as they visit the vibrant wildflower meadow. Wooded pockets run all the way through also, leading to Fenn Creek which offers a lovely viewing point across the River Crouch. Perfect for a moment of reflection and mindfulness, a break from busy life to reconnect with nature.

Images above – Compass Gardens; pedestrian entrance arch, shrub and flower beds, wildlife grassland with mosaic wall in background.

Situated just one mile from Frankland Fields Local Nature Reserve (LNR), is Compass Gardens and Saltcoats Park. Compass Gardens is a gem within South Woodham Ferrers, its nautical theme enhances the green space with the full-sized anchors and mosaic that was created by local artists and school children. A fun, thriving space that also has a well-equipped children’s play area alongside flowers beds and herbaceous borders. You could bring a picnic, sit on one of their benches, and take in the lovely surroundings before taking a short walk to Woodham Fen which is a marshland area perfect for nature spotting.

Images above – Compass Gardens and Saltcoats Park; anchor, rugby field, skate park

Saltcoats Park, next to Compass Gardens, differs to the other green spaces as it homes South Woodham Ferrers  Cricket Club, Rugby Club and Football Club. If you’re not part of a local sports team then have no fear, as the area also provides a skate-park and outdoor gym which is available for anyone to come and enjoy. Spaces like this are key to local communities as they offer an opportunity to get active, for free, and in the fresh air which has increased mental, as well as physical benefits.

Images above – Frankland Fields LNR; wildflower meadow, Saltcoats Park orchard and tree line. 

Show some love for South Woodham Ferrers this month and head on down to these parks and green spaces. If you would like to send in any photos of you visiting these areas, we would love to see them and may feature them on our socials!

Article by: Issy Lyons (Marketing Officer, Events and Corporate)

Looking for more active or mindful moments before your visit?

• Watch our short park of the month reel on this trio of South Woodham Ferrers parks here
• Explore self-guided walks and cycle routes on Chelmsford City Councils City Sports website
• Find out more on South Woodham Ferrers by a resident of the area here
• or Visit the South Woodham Ferrers Town Council website for more local insights and events information

Volunteering:

• Join our Conservation Volunteers and support South Woodham Ferrers parks biodiversity. Volunteers like you help with everything from habitat surveys to maintaining wildlife areas and building bug hotels, plus a whole host of other  seasonal projects.