Whalebone Spring

Wood, Forest in Essex Braintree

England

Whalebone Spring

Holy Trinity Church, Bradwell, Essex Bradwell church stands quite a distance from its village in a remote location with just a farm as its neighbour. The church is mainly Norman and there is much evidence of roman bricks being used. Many churches around the Colchester area show signs of re-used roman bricks from the original roman town of Colchester. — Holy Trinity Church, Bradwell, Essex Credit: Robert Edwards

Whalebone Spring, located in the county of Essex, England, is a picturesque woodland area within the larger expanse of Epping Forest. Spanning approximately 35 hectares, this natural oasis offers enchanting scenery and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

The name "Whalebone Spring" originates from a historical reference to a whale's jawbone, which was once displayed in the area as a boundary marker. Today, the spring itself is no longer visible, but the name has remained, capturing the imagination of visitors and locals alike.

The woodland landscape of Whalebone Spring is dominated by a mix of native tree species, including oak, beech, and hornbeam. These ancient trees provide a dense canopy, creating a tranquil and shady environment that is perfect for leisurely walks and nature exploration. Bluebells carpet the forest floor in spring, painting the ground with a vibrant hue, while ferns, mosses, and lichens thrive in the damp and shaded corners.

The wildlife at Whalebone Spring is abundant, with a variety of bird species such as woodpeckers, jays, and nuthatches making their homes in the trees. Squirrels can be spotted darting amongst the branches, and if one is lucky, they may even catch a glimpse of a timid deer or a fox gracefully passing through the undergrowth.

Whalebone Spring is a cherished location for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its natural beauty and tranquility make it an invigorating destination for all who visit, providing a welcome respite from the urban surroundings of Essex.

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Whalebone Spring Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.881783/0.65416337 or Grid Reference TL8223. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Holy Trinity Church, Bradwell, Essex

Bradwell church stands quite a distance from its village in a remote location with just a farm as its neighbour. The church is mainly Norman and there is much evidence of roman bricks being used. Many churches around the Colchester area show signs of re-used roman bricks from the original roman town of Colchester.

Robert Edwards

Coggeshall Town & Youth FC

Angela Tuff

St. Mary's church, Pattiswick, Essex

Like many other redundant churches around the country, this 12th century church has been converted into a private residence. The conversion has been quite sympathetically done and, although it seems a shame that such action has been carried out, it is better than demolition.

Robert Edwards

Ruined mill

Ruined mill and cottages near Robin's Brook, Coggeshall

Neil Britton

Visitor Centre at Markshall Country Park, Essex

The Country Park lies to the north of Coggeshall.

Robert Edwards

Whalebone wood

Whalebone wood (and the nearby spring) are well named - a pair of whalebones are still visible in the hedge beside the road here.

Simon Leatherdale

Holfield Grange

Simon Leatherdale

Little Nunty's farm

This arable field was originally divided into 7 and named after the days of the week and during WW II a horse was caught in cross fire from a "dog fight" going on overhead and, alas, died.

Simon Leatherdale