Countryside in the heart of Newham
East Ham Nature Reserve
This nature reserve is close to the busy Newham Way and overshadowed by a large flyover. The graveyard of St Mary Magdalene church has been a nature reserve since 1976.
The reserve
The four acre site is home to foxes, bats and butterflies. In summer the rose-bay willow herb is home to rare caterpillars. Many species of bird nest and breed here.
The church
The church dates back to the 12th century when it was built by the Normans. It is home to Gabriel, the oldest bell in London, which was cast at the famous Whitechapel Bell Foundry.
Submitted by: Andrew Hunt, 18 January 2007
