Wildlife photography at Kearsney Abbey Gardens and Russell Gardens in Kent
Little Egret, 2020
Without a doubt these two parks are a must-visit for anybody who enjoys wildlife and bird photography.
Kearsney Abbey Gardens and Russell Gardens are two adjacent parks in South East Kent near Alkham Valley.
A mere 15-minute drive away from my home in Folkestone, the parks were a perfect place to begin my wildlife photography journey.
Wren, 2020
Thrush, 2020
Kingfisher, 2020
Squirrel, 2020
The parks are homes to species like the kingfisher, little grebe, grey wagtail, little egret, heron, swan and much more.
As well as the species mentioned above you can find most of the common birds such as robins, blue tits, wrens, thrushes and tree creepers.
Common kingfisher, 2023
Mandarin duck, 2024
The latest species I got to photograph at the park was a visiting Mandarin duck and a Great Cormorant. The Mandarin duck became a local attraction in March but is no longer at the parks.
Great Cormorant, 2024
Little Grebe, 2020
A few Little Grebes are permanent residents in both parks. You can see and photograph them pretty much all year round.
Cygnets (baby swans), 2020
Swans are among some of the permanent residents at the parks too. Cygnets can be spotted in late April, the beginning of May most years.
The parks and not only superb for wildlife photography but also for family days out in nature. The tea rooms on site are great for a cup of coffee and a sandwich for lunch and there is free parking from 7 am to 7 pm every day.
Mandarin duck, 2024
Head over to the park’s website https://www.kearsneyparks.co.uk/ where you will be able to find detail information about the facilities, parking and how to get there.
