Benacre Broad
Land ranger Map 156 Grid Ref TM 530830.
Benacre Broad is situated on the Suffolk Coast between Lowestoft in the North & Southwold in the South. Many stories have been told as to how the Broad was formed but in the 1700’s it was five miles inland & probably old peat diggings. The remnants of the old decoy can be seen just north west of the hide. At the western end of the broad there are a series of “Bunds” which protect the frequent inundations from the sea from reaching the freshwater marshes. The broad is part of the Benacre NNR.
By far the best time to visit is autumn to late spring. In the summer it is frequented by many bathers.
If you come in from the north from Kessingland Beach (TM 537856) it is by far the best way to see all the habitats. The Denes between Kessingland & Benacre Sluice attracts many common Passerines & migrants. Wheatears, Meadow Pipits & Linnets are to be found using the short turf with the latter two breeding nearby. In winter the area can be good for Shore larks & Snow Buntings. Just inland on the rougher denes & in the west Kessingland Levels many good birds can be found including Short eared Owl in winter, Kestrel, Hen harrier & Marsh harrier & wintering Geese.
The River Hundred by the Benacre Sluice is good for winter Duck & autumn waders.
Once over the stile you are in the reserve. There are two pits to explore & a whole host of bushes in which to find that hidden gem. Keep walking south until you come to the concrete path. Turn right here to Beach Farm. It is a good spot for autumn & spring migrants.
As you walk back to the beach the way you came turn right & head toward Benacre Broad & the hide which is situated to the south of the broad. The trick with this place is to sit & wait. If the broad is full all the birds will be at the far end but later in the year the water drains out & this is when the exposed mud can be a great challenge to search.
Most of the stuff you get at Minsmere can be seen here in throughout the year but not so many rarities. Walking from Kessingland will take you a round trip of five hours including an hour or so in the hide.
However for those who do not wish to walk that far you can park at the Covehithe Cliffs & walk the half mile to the hide from here (TM 525819) Beware though it is a hot spot for car breaks You would be better off parking near the church where there are occupied dwellings.
Colin J.
Land ranger Map 156 Grid Ref TM 530830.
Benacre Broad is situated on the Suffolk Coast between Lowestoft in the North & Southwold in the South. Many stories have been told as to how the Broad was formed but in the 1700’s it was five miles inland & probably old peat diggings. The remnants of the old decoy can be seen just north west of the hide. At the western end of the broad there are a series of “Bunds” which protect the frequent inundations from the sea from reaching the freshwater marshes. The broad is part of the Benacre NNR.
By far the best time to visit is autumn to late spring. In the summer it is frequented by many bathers.
If you come in from the north from Kessingland Beach (TM 537856) it is by far the best way to see all the habitats. The Denes between Kessingland & Benacre Sluice attracts many common Passerines & migrants. Wheatears, Meadow Pipits & Linnets are to be found using the short turf with the latter two breeding nearby. In winter the area can be good for Shore larks & Snow Buntings. Just inland on the rougher denes & in the west Kessingland Levels many good birds can be found including Short eared Owl in winter, Kestrel, Hen harrier & Marsh harrier & wintering Geese.
The River Hundred by the Benacre Sluice is good for winter Duck & autumn waders.
Once over the stile you are in the reserve. There are two pits to explore & a whole host of bushes in which to find that hidden gem. Keep walking south until you come to the concrete path. Turn right here to Beach Farm. It is a good spot for autumn & spring migrants.
As you walk back to the beach the way you came turn right & head toward Benacre Broad & the hide which is situated to the south of the broad. The trick with this place is to sit & wait. If the broad is full all the birds will be at the far end but later in the year the water drains out & this is when the exposed mud can be a great challenge to search.
Most of the stuff you get at Minsmere can be seen here in throughout the year but not so many rarities. Walking from Kessingland will take you a round trip of five hours including an hour or so in the hide.
However for those who do not wish to walk that far you can park at the Covehithe Cliffs & walk the half mile to the hide from here (TM 525819) Beware though it is a hot spot for car breaks You would be better off parking near the church where there are occupied dwellings.
Colin J.
