Elmley National Nature Reserve

Elmley is a 3,300 acre National Nature Reserve, where peaceful meadows and waterways are dominated by vast, soul-stirring skies. Enjoy a safari experience on the two-mile entry track through roaming cattle, winding waterways and wildlife. Keep an eye out for hares, marsh harrier, egrets, lapwings and redshank. The Reserve, on a family-run farm, is renowned for wildlife and Shepherds Hut accommodation.

At Elmley you are likely to see water birds wading in the ponds, magnificent birds of prey soaring above, hares bounding across the meadows, as well as a butterflies, dragonflies and bees exploring the waterways and wildflowers. If you're lucky you might spot a watervole hiding among the reeds or a grass-snake basking by the ponds.

Elmley is also crammed full of heritage and history: Discover the house where King James II was imprisoned in 1688, the remains of a Victorian village and the marshes that inspired Dickens' Great Expectations.​

The Reserve is a popular spot for photographers owing to its mesmerising landscapes, special quality of light and abundance of wildlife. Adult workshops and hire of photography hides are also available. The Reserve is a renowned wildlife spot with the highest concentration of breeding waders such as lapwing, redshank, avocet, oyster catcher in lowland UK attracting wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers and photographers from throughout the UK.

Tickets can be purchased on the gate, and from the car park you are welcome to cycle or walk along the nature trails through the Reserve.

Stay at Elmley 

Shepherds Huts

Elmley is the only place in the UK you can spend the night within a National Nature Reserve. Enjoy the custom made, luxurious Shepherds Huts, all located in the middle of the Nature Reserve and family farm. All the huts are designed to give the best views of the awe-inspiring landscape, and wildlife, from the bed and are warm, cosy and incredibly comfortable to enjoy throughout year. All the huts are designed with luxury in mind, from the supremely comfortable beds to the gorgeously indulgent British shower products. They are also rooted in the landscape with local produce and materials being fundamental to their design and guest experience.

All huts are en-suite and have self-catering facilities. With a range of extras available, including holistic massages, private 4x4 tours, and delicious meals delivered to the hut door, along with miles of wildlife trails to explore and being a stone's throw from Kent's finest attractions, guests can do as much or as little as they like. Whilst being a popular experience for couples, families are warmly welcomed well-catered for. These unique and beautiful huts are regularly featured in local, national and lifestyle press and are renowned as one of the most special places to stay and experience Kent from.

Kingshill Farmhouse 

The beautiful 18th Century farmhouse opened following a loving and extensive restoration and offers the experience of a luxurious private home. Available for whole house rental: family get-togethers, weddings, celebrations, company retreats. As well as beautiful, individually styled rooms (with a view) expect cosy afternoons by the fire, a relaxed bar service, beautifully simple meals of local ingredients cooked with love by our chef, and of course the views, space and walks in nature that Elmley is all about.

We can't wait to welcome you.

Escape to Elmley, only one hour from London, and enjoy walking, bird watching, photography or simply relaxing in the magnificent scenery.

Check out our individual accommodation webpages and online availability. Call 01795 664896 or 07930847520 should you have any further questions.

The traditional Kentish barn is available for hire for weddings and events.

For wedding enquiries please email: weddings@elmleynaturereserve.co.uk

Visitor Information: 

For day visits, stays and up to date visitor information, visit the Elmley Nature Reserve website.

The barn and accommodation areas are for overnight guests only. More information on staying via the accommodation page.

Visitors are welcome to picnic on the benches beyond the car park (please just take your rubbish with you).

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on site, with the exception of registered assistance dogs.