River Orwell, Suffolk
The river gave its name to local writer Eric Blair, who became famous as George Orwell and brought us Big Brother in his novel ‘1984’. He loved the river and enjoyed inspirational walks along its banks. Today, you can visit the Nacton Picnic area which overlooks the mouth of the River Orwell and offers some great river views. It is a wonderful spot to sit and watch ships navigating the narrow channel up river to Ipswich.
The Orwell's mud flats are an important habitat for a wide variety of wintering birds. Between December and March the mud flats get very busy and, as a result, the bird watching is well worth travelling for.
Woolverstone Marina lies on the River Orwell in the historic city of Ipswich. Boats of all shapes and sizes are moored at the marina which is home to the Royal Harwich Yacht Club . Sailing is very popular on the Orwell and those without their own boat can always enjoy a ride on the Lady Orwell pleasure cruiser . The river also has close links with luxury yacht makers Fairline, who have an operation at Wet Dock and are a significant local employer.
The River Orwell’s estuary marks the southern most point of the beautiful Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB). This ANOB was designated in 1970 in recognition of the important range of natural habitats and species contained within the region. The estuary is specially protected because of its national and international importance for wildlife, many thousands of wintering waders and wildfowl depend on the food and habitat provided there. Among the sea lavender and common reed can be found redshank, lapwing, knot, curlew, dunlin, avocet, grey plover and many more birds who favour the salt marshes.
More British Natural features?
Other Suffolk Naturals
Dedham Vale
Dunwich Heath
The Brecks
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