The River Roding is a significant tributary of the nearby River Lea, which in turn joins the River Thames. The reserve lies within the Metropolitan Green Belt and as such forms part of an extensive network of protected wildlife habitats across Greater London. The river flows through London's northern upland fringe, forming the boundary between Epping Forest and Hainault Forest. The site supports a wide variety of wildlife including kingfisher, water vole, otter and fish such as perch and pike.

Waste Collection Chigwell Chigwell is a small reserve with an outer area of wet and dry woodland,a grassed central island edged by a small stream. There is wild flower meadow and scrub within the woodland area. In summer,the grassland provides an attractive habitat for butterflies, including the common blue, ringlet, peacock and marbled white. Large areas of open ground can be very attractive to fieldfares and redwings attracted to worms etc. Walk around the stunning River Roding, South Essex Wildlife Trust's flagship reserve in Chigwell.

Find out about our young project woodland planted in 2011, riverbank restoration and biodiversity work and visit the organic nursery for some free seasonal veg plants. Waste Collection Chigwell Chigwell is the short name for the section of the River Roding that runs for 1. 5 miles from Chigwell Lane, through Debden to Roding Lane. The rivervalley habitat is managed by London Borough of Redbridge and borders Epping Forest. This depot is on Peronne Road just off Colchester Road if you follow signs for Wilbury Road.