What is it?
Consisting of ten reservoirs and over 200 hectares, Walthamstow Wetlands is a fully operational Thames Water site used as the main source of water supply to 3.5 million people. The largest urban wetland in Europe, it’s also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and an internationally significant conservation site, as well as a great place for Londoners looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life for a few hours.
Why go?
To get a good old dose of nature. With a vast range of habitats, from sheltered scrubland and dense reed beds to large bodies of clean water, the Wetlands are teeming with wildlife. If you’re into bird-watching, this is a prime spot for spotting swans, kestrels and geese. The twelve reservoirs comprise the largest fishery in London, and are regularly restocked with rainbow trout, making this a great place for both beginners and experienced anglers to go fishing.
E17’s industrial history also gives the area a striking and unusual aesthetic, with old metalworks and gunpowder mills dotting the fecund green spaces. Go exploring and you may also come across toads, frogs, hedgehogs and a huge variety of waterfowl among them.
Don’t miss
Built in 1894, the former Marine Engine House now serves as a visitor centre and café. Serving up locally-roasted coffee, toasties and homemade bakes, it’s the ideal place to stop by and refuel after a long hike.
When to visit
The Wetlands are open from 9.30am daily, but closing time varies depending on the time of year. From October to March, the Wetlands close at 4pm, and from April to September they closes at 5pm. Last entry is half an hour before closing time.
Ticketing info
The Wetlands are free to visit and you do not require a ticket. If you’re driving, the site has its own car park, with charges starting from £2 for one hour, while those wishing to fish at the Wetlands will need a permit, with prices starting at £15 for one day.
Time Out tip
Keen to learn more about the Wetlands’ wildlife? The London Wildlife Trust runs regular events suitable for all kinds of visitors, from ‘Nature Tots Forest School’, a weekly course where pre-school kids connect with nature through a variety of hands-on activities, to Insect DNA Mapping sessions where you get to be part of a citizen science project helping to monitor the UK’s insect population. Check out the Wetlands’ programme of upcoming events here.