Coronavirus (COVID-19)

If you are planning on travelling distance to attractions, we would recommend that you contact the venues directly in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you, or any of your party have a new persistant cough, or develop a fever of 38C, we would instead advise you to use the NHS's dedicated website for professional advice.

Thorley Wash

A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) just south of Bishop's Stortford, noted for its botanical diversity.
A reserve filled with birdsong south of Bishop's Stortford. One of a string of wetlands flanking the Stort Navigation. Thorley Wash was formerly known as Thorley Flood Pound: it used to act as flood storage for the Stort Navigation. It was decommissioned in 2004 and the site has been restored to a more natural state.
Thorley Wash was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1986 for its botanical interest associated with tall wash grassland habitat. Wildflowers present include ragged robin, marsh marigold, fen bedstraw and meadowsweet. There are also records for early and southern marsh orchids.
Surveys have confirmed the presence of a Red Data Book species, Desmoulin’s whorl snail. This is a tiny snail that measures less than 3mm! They are most visible during the warmer months, however their size makes them difficult to spot.
The wet habitats are good for a diverse range of wildlife including dragonflies, damselflies, birds and bats. Areas of long vegetation provide shelter for small mammals and reptiles.

  • Currently: Low-level cloud, 11° C
  • Tuesday: Medium-level cloud, 12° C
  • Wednesday: Medium-level cloud, 14° C