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FAQ
Q. What is
Davy Down?
A. Davy Down is approximately 32 acres of attractive
landscape nestled amongst large modern developments. It is
an area for public enjoyment and provides a great
opportunity to explore and enjoy the countryside on your
doorstep. It forms part of the Mardyke Valley and Thames
Chase Community Forest.
Q. Where is
Davy Down?
A. Davy Down is situated off the B186 in Thurrock, Essex
between South Ockendon and Lakeside. The full address is:
Davy Down
Back Lane (off Pilgrims
Lane)
North Stifford
Essex
RM16 5UL
Q. What can I
do at Davy Down?
A. There are many things that you could do. Some people
come to keep fit by riding a bicycle or going for a long
walk. Other people come to enjoy and photograph the amazing
wildlife that can be found here. However, many people just
come to escape the business of modern life, take in the
scenery and enjoy the peace and quiet for a while. In
addition there are a series of organised events run
throughout the year, for kids, families and community
groups.
Discover Davy Down open days run from
April to October on the second Sunday of these months
(except where this clashes with public holidays, when the
date may be different). Family activities on these days
include guided walks and talks, mini-beast safaris and pond
dipping followed by an examination of some of the 'beasts'
discovered using our big screen video microscopes.
Q. Why is it
called Davy Down?
The area currently called Davy Down was farmed by the
Davy family in times gone by.
In addition the area and the surrounding hills have
historically been classified as downland.
Hence Davy Down. Many local people also refer to the area
as the Fourteen Arches.
Q. What are
the buildings at Davy Down?
Of the two largest buildings at Davy Down the tallest
one overlooking the main field is the Stifford Pumping
Station and the lower one adjacent to Back Lane is the
Filter House. Both are owned and operated by Essex & Suffolk
Water Company and provide the local area with tap water
which is extracted from the rocks deep below the site and
then treated on site before being piped to local
communities.
Q. Who owns
Davy Down?
Just over half the area of land is owned by Essex &
Suffolk Water Company. The remainder is owned by Thurrock
Borough Council.
Q. What are
your opening times?
Davy Down is open to pedestrians and access is possible
for vehicles (height restriction 6' 6" and width restriction
in operation) 24 hours a day, all year round. The Pumping
Station is open to the public when the Warden is present on
site and during the Discover Davy Down open days.
Q. How accessible
is Davy Down?
All the footpaths are suitable
for wheelchair users. Seasonal variations should be
considered before visiting as flooding can affect the path
along the River Mardyke in particular. Seating is located
every 200 meters and a change of surface highlights the
location of resting points for visually impaired visitors.
All seating areas are surfaced and designed to enable
wheelchair users to sit next to family and friends. Please
phone or email for more detailed information.
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