Thundry Meadows
A 16-hectare reserve featuring a mix of wet and dry habitats, including alder carr and meadows, supporting diverse flora and fauna.
Tucked away near Elstead and Farnham, Thundry Meadows is one of Surrey’s most ecologically rich wet meadow reserves. Managed by Surrey Wildlife Trust, this tranquil site is part of the Wey Valley floodplain, offering a rare glimpse into lowland river meadow ecosystems. Marsh marigolds bloom along shallow streams, dragonflies hover in sunlit corridors, and warblers flit between willow and alder stands. For nature photographers, this is a haven of detail and delicacy—every corner reveals small wonders if you move quietly and take your time.
A Place for Macro, Mood, and Quiet Behavior
Thundry Meadows is ideal for macro photography, soft backlight portraits, and environmental compositions of birds and insects. Look for sedge warblers in reed beds, frogs among the grasses, and dragonflies on sunlit stems. Woodland edges also attract tits, finches, and the occasional hobby hunting overhead. Misty mornings and overcast days bring soft lighting perfect for low-contrast scenes and layered storytelling.
Best Times to Visit:
Spring: Marsh marigolds, willow warblers, frogspawn, and vibrant insect life
Summer: Dragonflies in full motion, lush green growth, butterflies and fledgling birds
Autumn: Seed heads, low light through reeds, and migrating bird activity
Winter: Flooded meadows, stark textures, and moody tree silhouettes
Plan Your Visit
Limited parking nearby; access via footpath from Farnham Road or the church in Elstead
Waterproof boots are essential—sections flood seasonally
A macro lens is a must, along with a 300–500mm for birdlife
Arrive early to catch soft light and undisturbed activity
Did you know?
Thundry Meadows is part of a floodplain system that not only provides essential habitat for pollinators and ground-nesting birds but also acts as a natural sponge—reducing downstream flooding and filtering pollutants from the Wey River.
