Wilder Kent Safari: History and Wildlife of Oare Marshes

Oare Marshes forms part of the North Kent Marshes, remnants of grazing marsh that once covered this area. This part of the Kent coast is an important area for birds year-round from overwintering waders and ducks to breeding warblers in summer.

Oare Marshes also has a fascinating local history. Once part of Oare Gunpowder Works until the early twentieth century, the landscape has been reclaimed by nature and has been managed by Kent Wildlife Trust since 1984.

Join the Area Warden to explore the 81 hectares of grazing marsh, salt marsh, freshwater dykes and reedbeds, and hear how these habitats support a wide range of wildlife, including the Trust’s own herd of cattle who graze the marsh all year.

This safari is aimed at an adult audience, 14-17 year olds may attend with an accompanying adult over 18. Hoping to bring the children? Family Wildlife Watch Safaris are available during school holidays, see https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/safaris for availability.

This safari will last approximately 3 hours and most of the time will be spent walking or standing. Much of the route follows surfaced paths, but these can be muddy. Ensure you wear sturdy footwear (during periods of wet weather waterproof footwear is advisable) and clothing suitable for the weather conditions.

Please note there are no toilet facilities at the reserve, and no refreshments are available to purchase on site. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink with you, a bottle of water is recommended.

Parking charges apply at the Oare Marshes car park but this is included with your safari ticket if you book at least 72 hours in advance. To receive free parking you must email the correct number plate of the car you will be using to parkingcharges@kentwildlife.org.uk at least 72 hours before the event start time. Please include the date of the event you have booked and the name the booking was made in as part of your email. If you are booking within 72 hours of the event, or do not confirm your number plate by this time, you will need to pay for parking on the day.

For information about other Wilder Kent Safari experiences please visit https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/safaris.