Holborough Marshes
O.S Map 178 TQ 707626 : Nr Snodland
The 35 hectare reserve has areas of tidal brackish reedbeds, freshwater marsh, marshy grassland, scrub, woodland, freshwater and saline dykes.
The site is very important for birds. Reed bunting and reed and sedge warblers nest in the reedbeds and nightingales breed in the scrub and woodland.
In autumn, large flocks of swallows and sand martins roost in the reed beds before migrating south. Winter visitors include teal, gadwall, redshank, snipe, water rail and Cetti’s warbler.
A wide range of plant species is found on the reserve. Reedbed areas contain marsh-mallow, while marshy grassland has early and southern marsh-orchids,blunt-flowered rush and marsh marigold.
Directions
By Road:
From the M20 junction 4 take the A228 north. After the first roundabout follow the signs for Snodland Railway Station. The reserve can be accessed on foot via the public footpath from Church Fields. There is no dedicated parking for this reserve.
Public Transport:
Bus 151 Chatham and West Malling (¼ mi/0.4 km). The reserve is 5 minutes walk from Snodland railway station.
Download Reserve Map (PDF)
Key site for
Wildlife update
- New funding from HLF will enable Kent Wildlife Trust to further improve habitat management; enable building of a bird watching shelter; strengthen barriers to prevent unauthorised vehicular access; and improve disabled access.
- Spring sightings of the nationally rare nightingale and Cetti's warblers were recorded.
- Water voles are abundent on the site.
- Early marsh orchid a rare species, continue to increase in numbers.
