Sparkey Wood

Wood, Forest in Essex Maldon

England

Sparkey Wood

Sparkey Wood is a picturesque forest located in the county of Essex, England. Covering an area of approximately 50 acres, this woodland is renowned for its natural beauty and abundance of flora and fauna. It is situated in close proximity to the village of Essex, making it easily accessible to both locals and visitors alike.

The wood is predominantly made up of deciduous trees, including oak, beech, and birch, which provide a stunning display of colors throughout the changing seasons. These trees create a dense canopy, offering shade and shelter to a diverse range of wildlife. Sparkey Wood is home to numerous species of birds, such as woodpeckers, thrushes, and owls, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Walking through the wood, visitors can enjoy a network of well-maintained trails that meander through the peaceful surroundings. These trails offer an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, with the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional sighting of a deer or fox adding to the tranquility of the experience.

In addition to its natural beauty, Sparkey Wood also boasts a small clearing that serves as a picnic area. Here, visitors can relax and enjoy a family outing or a quiet moment of solitude, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest.

Overall, Sparkey Wood in Essex is a delightful destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its serene atmosphere, combined with its rich biodiversity, makes it a beloved spot for locals and a hidden gem for tourists exploring the region.

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Sparkey Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.781131/0.65294753 or Grid Reference TL8312. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Malt House

Oast House Archive

Maze south of Witham: aerial 2022

Simon Tomson

Witham Ford

This ford is found under the bridge of the A12 at Witham.

John Walton

Back Lane, Wickham Bishops

As the central square for Essex it has little to stimulate major excitement. My alternate image would have been wild rabbits in an adjacent field. Back Lane is one of several single-track ways in the south side of Wickham Bishops.

John V Nicholls

'The Chequers', Wickham Bishops, Essex

This popular public house stands in the middle of Wickham Bishops. It is noted for its fine food.

Robert Edwards

Last Of The Line

This is part of the only surviving wooden Railway Viaduct in England. It spans the River Blackwater ( see TL8211 : Blackwater Viaduct) and the mill stream shown here just outside Wickham Bishops. The Viaduct was built in 1846 during the 18 month long construction of the Witham to Maldon Railway. It carried traffic for 120 years before it was TQ9498 : Beechinged It was restored in 1995 and is now a scheduled Ancient Monument. Some detail of the construction may be seen at TL8211 : Viaduct Vision.

Glyn Baker

Seat for Moping about?

This seat is at the junction of Mope Lane and Church Rd Wickham Bishops. It is conveniently located to see the comings and goings at the Old Rectory!

Glyn Baker

Blackwater Viaduct

This is part of the only surviving wooden railway viaduct in England, here it is crossing the Blackwater Valley. The River is beyond the left of the frame. After that it crosses a mill stream this can be seen at TL8211 : Last Of The Line. The Witham to Maldon railway was intended to be an economic artery stimulating the growth of Maldon as a significant port. This never really happened and the line closed in the 1960’s. A copy of the poster announcing the closure of the railway is displayed at Mancapps Railway Museum Burnham on Crouch see TQ9498 : Beechinged.

Glyn Baker

Viaduct Vision

This shot shows some construction detail of the last remaining wooden railway viaduct in the country. Wooden Viaducts and bridges were cheap to build and rapid to construct. However wood rots with time and nearly all were replaced with steel or masonry. It was universal that lines that had not merited investment during the course of the 20th century were closed during the Beeching era. This viaduct survived 40 years rotting away. Why it was not demolished as a safety hazard is a mystery to me. It was restored in 1995 and is now a scheduled ancient monument. A long shot of the viaduct can be seen at TL8211 : Last Of The Line

Glyn Baker