Downs Spinney

Wood, Forest in Essex Colchester

England

Downs Spinney

A clearing in Hoe Wood Credit: Mr James D

Downs Spinney is a small woodland located in Essex, England. It is situated in the area known as the Essex Woodlands, which is part of the larger Epping Forest. Spanning approximately 10 acres, Downs Spinney is a natural haven for wildlife and a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

The woodland is characterized by a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, and birch. These trees create a dense canopy, providing shade and shelter to the various animals that call the spinney home. The forest floor is covered in a rich carpet of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to the beauty and biodiversity of the area.

Downs Spinney is crisscrossed by a network of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the natural surroundings. These pathways meander through the woodland, leading to picturesque clearings and tranquil ponds. The peaceful atmosphere of the spinney makes it an ideal spot for picnics, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll.

The woodland is teeming with wildlife, with a wide range of bird species, including woodpeckers, thrushes, and owls. Small mammals such as squirrels and rabbits are also commonly spotted, while reptiles like slow worms and common lizards can be found basking in the sun.

Downs Spinney is managed by the local council, who work to preserve its natural beauty and protect its inhabitants. They also organize various educational events and guided walks to promote awareness and appreciation of the woodland's ecological importance.

In conclusion, Downs Spinney is a charming woodland in Essex, offering a peaceful retreat for both humans and animals alike. Its diverse flora and fauna, coupled with its well-maintained trails, make it a delightful destination for nature lovers.

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Downs Spinney Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.920748/0.76936959 or Grid Reference TL9028. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A clearing in Hoe Wood

Mr James D

Thatched Essex Cottages

Cottages at Swan Street, near Chappel, Essex

Ron Strutt

Chappel & Wakes Colne Railway Station, Essex

Not only is the station served by normal services (it's on the Marks Tey to Sudbury branch) but it is also home to the East Anglian Railway Museum.

Ron Strutt

St Barnabas Chapel, Chappel, Essex

Houses cluster around the small 14th century church, originally a chapel. The village was allowed a chapel of its own in 1355, because bad weather prevented attendance at church - hence the name.

Brenda Howard

Chappel Village, Essex

Small quaint village in the valley of the River Colne and in the shadow of the biggest viaduct in East Anglia.

Brenda Howard

Chappel and Wakes Colne Railway Station, Essex

The station also serves as the East Anglian Railway Museum.

Brenda Howard

Chappel Viaduct, Near Wakes Colne, Essex

Train crossing the viaduct, travelling towards the small Chappel and Wakes Colne Railway Station. Photographer facing E'SE, train travelling N'NE.

Brenda Howard

Chappel Viaduct, Near Wakes Colne, Essex

The viaduct opened in 1846 and has 32 arches. It stands at 75 feet high and is the longest in East Anglia. Photographer is standing to the east of the structure, in playing fields designated as 'Millennium Open Spaces' which surround this part of the viaduct and are accessed via Chappel Village.

Brenda Howard

All Saints church, Wakes Colne, Essex

This church stands close to the side of a busy road and is not easy to photograph. It dates back to the Norman period and one of its small Norman windows can be seen in the photo.

Robert Edwards

Farmhouse at Oldhouse Farm, Wakes Colne, Essex

This farmhouse really is an old house, possibly early 15th century.

Robert Edwards

Jordan's Farm, Wakes Colne Green, Essex

The road in the photo is the road between Wakes Colne and Mount Bures.

Robert Edwards

'The Swan Inn' at Chappel, Essex

This is a very old building that dates back to 1350.

Robert Edwards

Pill box under viaduct

This pill box is under the Chappel Viaduct. Tank obstacles can also be seen nearby. It appears to be defending the structure

Oxyman

Chappel Viaduct

This is the 32 arch Chappel Viaduct, a World War 2 pillbox can be seen along with anti tank blocks in the foreground.

Oxyman

Chappel South Signal Box

This signal box is part of the East Anglian Railway Museum

Oxyman

Phonebox Greenhouse

An old K6 Telephone box being used as a greenhouse at the East Anglian Railway Museum's entrance

Oxyman

Pool Wagon

3,500 gallons Pool wagon outside the East Anglian Railway Museum. This wagon was built by Hurst Nelson for the LMSR in 1944. At this time fuel was pooled under the Ministry of Fuel. The vehicle was withdrawn in 1984 by BP and donated to the EARM

Oxyman

Roadside Illuminated Advertising Sign

Located on the A1124 Colchester Road just east of the Chappel Viaduct. Update: Family timber business in Earls Colne from 1833 or so. The timber works and cooperage (barrel making) in Earls Colne was taken over by the Mann family in 1833 and the woodyard was in Foundry Lane between the Police Station and the Baptist Chapel, A site now occupied by houses. The business prospered from 1833 until the 1970's, specialising in cricket bat willow and the felling and conversion of large timber. This reflective sign would have been erected in the 1930's, the firm had willows growing on the water meadows in this location by the side of the river. There may have been similar signs on the other roads into Earls Colne as the firm did a lot of publicity work in the 1930's which seem to have been a profitable time for them. The family has now disposed of all the woodlands in the area which they managed, but they are now mostly owned by former T & A J Mann employees and their descendants. Information kindly provided of by Thomas Mann.

Oxyman

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Downs Spinney is located at Grid Ref: TL9028 (Lat: 51.920748, Lng: 0.76936959)

Administrative County: Essex

District: Colchester

Police Authority: Essex