Hi
I came through Manningtree on the train and saw what looked like a myriad of waders on the mudflats... Is it a good place to birdwatch???
Joe
Manningtree is quite a good spot for birding. From the train recently, I suspect that the waders you saw were mainly Black-tailed Godwit, Lapwing and Redshank. It past years, a few rarities have turned up in this location, including: Long-billed Dowitcher and American Wigeon. One viewpoint over the Stour is to park at Mistley Walls, just east of Manningtree, and view from there. My suggestion, however, would be to park at the Coop in Manningtree and walk west along the seawall. After passing under the railway line, you come to a marshy area on your left called The Splodge, which is often one of the first places in Essex to have spring arrivals of Little Ringed Plover. Soon after that, cross the road and continue on the riverside path all the way to Flatford Mill. Again, this might be more productive of birds in Spiring, but it is a nice walk. Some way along the path, you can look over to the lagoons north of the river (a scope is handy) where Garganey regularly turn up in Spring.
Hope this info is handy - Stewart