Papercourt Marshes is one of Surrey’s quietest yet most ecologically rich nature reserves. Nestled between Send and Ripley, this SSSI-designated wetland is managed by Surrey Wildlife Trust and forms part of the wider Wey Valley floodplain. Known for its wild beauty and rare birdlife, it remains closed to general public access—making it a treasured location for permitted naturalists, researchers, and photographers. FeatherFrame features Papercourt Marshes as a prime example of how undisturbed wetlands can flourish when left to nature.

Waders, Water Rails, and Serene Floodplains

The marshes support a wide array of birdlife including lapwings, snipe, sedge warblers, and water rails. Marsh harriers and barn owls are occasional highlights, and the reed-fringed pools make for compelling bird-in-habitat portraits. With seasonal flooding, shifting light, and minimal disturbance, this is a dream landscape for ethical, long-lens wildlife storytelling. FeatherFrame photographers celebrate Papercourt Marshes for its sense of untouched space and the intimate access it offers—when access is permitted—to some of Surrey’s most elusive wetland birds.

Best Times to Visit:

  • Spring: Nesting waders, returning warblers, rising waterlines

  • Summer: Dragonfly clouds, reedbird activity, and misty mornings

  • Autumn: Quiet feeding, early migrations, atmospheric fog

  • Winter: Water rail sightings, low sun, and wild silence

Plan Your Visit

  • Access is by permit only through Surrey Wildlife Trust; there is no general public entry

  • Located near Papercourt Lane, Send (GU23 area), adjacent to Papercourt Lake

  • Best gear: 500mm+ lens essential, tripod or monopod for marsh edges, weatherproof footwear

  • FeatherFrame tip: on permitted access days, arrive early—birds are most active at dawn and the fog-softened landscape offers painterly photographic conditions

Did you know?

Papercourt Marshes are one of Surrey’s best remaining examples of lowland floodplain wetland. Home to over 70 species of breeding birds, their survival relies on habitat-sensitive grazing and limited disturbance. FeatherFrame includes this rare gem to highlight the critical role of protected, undisturbed wetlands in preserving bird diversity in the South East.

Papercourt Marshes

A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) managed by Surrey Wildlife Trust, featuring diverse wetland habitats that support a variety of bird species and other wildlife.