Blindley Heath

One of the best-known examples of relict damp grassland on Weald clay in Surrey.

Blindley Heath is a quiet marvel of biodiversity—one of the last remaining pockets of lowland damp heath in Surrey. Managed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust and located near Godstone, this reserve protects an exceptionally rare habitat home to dragonflies, warblers, and wetland specialists like the elusive water rail. Open heaths, bog pools, and damp meadows offer a serene backdrop for patient photographers seeking unique species and moody textures. The reserve’s rich acoustics—from buzzing insects to bubbling calls from hidden birds—create a truly immersive natural experience.

A Wetland Gem for Patient Storytellers

Blindley Heath is a place for quiet observation and intimate scenes. The bog pools are perfect for capturing dragonflies in flight or perched among reeds, while the damp meadows host sedge warblers and reed buntings. Misty mornings and overcast days create beautiful soft light, ideal for layered compositions. Telephoto lenses are useful for secretive species, while macro opportunities abound around water’s edge.

Best Times to Visit:

  • Spring: Sedge warblers and reed buntings arrive; frogs and insects become active

  • Summer: Peak dragonfly activity; damselflies and butterflies are abundant

  • Autumn: Subtle golds in reeds, dew-covered meadows, and migrating finches

  • Winter: Water rails and snipe become easier to spot near frozen pools

Plan Your Visit

  • Limited parking available off the A22 near South Godstone

  • Waterproof boots are essential, especially after rain

  • Stay on designated paths to protect fragile wetlands

  • Bring a long lens and be ready for low-angle macro shots near water

Did you know?

Blindley Heath is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and one of the few places in Surrey where fen meadow and wet heath coexist. Without ongoing restoration and grazing, these ecosystems would vanish—along with the species they support.