Rye Meads is a fantastic day out for all the family! This wetland reserve, beside the River Lee, is a favourite with walkers, birdwatchers and photographers too.

You can explore this lovely nature reserve throughout the year, and get close to the fantastic wildlife.

There are a number of hides that give great views of wildlife, even without binoculars.

Children can borrow Explorer Backpacks full of activities for children to do while exploring the reserve to help them see wildlife; including identification charts, bug boxes, colouring sheets etc. There are also Bird Bingo sheets: how much can you spot on your visit to the reserve? Can you see a bug, or a bird singing?

There is a hot drinks machine, a water fountain, and picnic areas, you would be very welcome to eat your lunch in our classrooms or one of the many hides if you would prefer.

Unfortunately, we do not have any food for sale - but we do have great picnic areas so why not bring a picnic?

The toilets are situated at the visitor centre.

Disabled and baby changing facilities can also be found at the visitor centre.

We do not sell any food items, but would be happy to warm milk in our microwave, please ask us.

By road â€" Rye Meads is only 8 miles north from the M25, junction 25. From the A10 - NOTE: This route is only accessible for vehicles with axle weights less than 5T. From the A10, take the Hoddesdon turning and follow the brown duck signs. By Rail - Nation Express run frequently runs services directly into London Liverpool Street. Rye House railway station is only 400 yards/366 m from the reserve. The line goes directly into London on the Hertford East Spur of the Cambridge to Liverpool Street line. For more directions please go to www.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads

Picnic tables are available. Rye Meads is suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and buggies.

Teachers - you can bring your school group here! Our Field Teaching scheme caters for all ages and abilities and meets the requirements of national curriculum, GCSE and AS/A2 level.

Specially trained field teachers ensure your day is educational, interactive and stimulating for students and teachers alike.

If you've had fun on your family day out to RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve, tell us about it your visit, so other people will know it's a great place to go as well.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads