Make the most out of your time on the Reserve, and find below information on walks, bird hides and staying with children
We have miles of nature trails to explore, allowing you to discover the rare wildlife and history of Elmley Island.
View a map here or collect one on arrival. And any questions just ask a member of our team.
We have four hides on site, in which hours can be spent enjoying nature at its best. The furthest hide Spitend is 5.5km from the farm, so collect a picnic from the Linhay and enjoy a day in most remote spot in South East England
There is no booking system to use them. The hides are simple structures so do dress for the weather.
We have a private beach at Elmley which is a lovely spot for swimming in the Summer. During Autumn, Winter and Spring it is an important feeding and resting area for migratory birds so we request that guests don't go onto the beach. The viewing screen allows you a wonderful view of the activity on the beach and the Swale. Just a short walk from the farm, this is recommended if you don’t want a long walk and particularly special at high tide (please ask the team for tide times).
You are welcome to rent binoculars, just ask in the Linhay. £5 per day please speak to the team if you'd like to add them to your booking.
Elmley’s huge skies and special quality of light are a huge draw for artists.
Dawn and Dusk are particularly special, and also wildlife is most abundant. Sleep with the curtains open to make the most of that sunrise (you can always go back to sleep afterwards!).
Our tours are a wonderful way to experience sunrise and sunset over the Reserve.
What better place to be in the rain than curled up in bed with a cup of tea and watch the weather roll across the marsh! During wet weather enjoy the atmospheric Linhay with tea and cake while the log burner is on. Games and books are available.
The huge barn is great for children to hang out on rainy days, please speak to the team for access.
After 4pm all guests over 12 are welcome to Kingshill Farmhouse to kick back with a drink and the fire on.
Children are welcome at Elmley, and revel at the space and, the open air and the wildlife all around. Please do speak to Abbie our in house nature guide for the best wildlife watching for children at the time of your stay. During school holidays Abbie runs children's activities, please speak to the team to find out more.
It is a long walk to our hides for little legs so do set off prepared with snacks, rain coat and water. Closer to the farm enjoy the short treelined walk to the Old School House or Cockleshell Beach. For babies an off-road pram or baby carrier is advised.
Travel cots and highchairs are available please do ask in advance as availability can be limited in busy times.
As we are a working farm with farm machinery please ensure children are supervised at all times when you are out and about. Do be extra careful around any water as the ditches and ponds are very deep.