While London is known for its bustling urban landscape, the borough of Havering offers residents and visitors alike a rejuvenating contrast with its abundance of natural spaces. After indulging in holiday feasts, these verdant retreats provide perfect settings for leisurely walks to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Havering Country Park stands as a remarkable 165-acre expanse of natural woodland and meadowland, representing the western portion of the original Havering estate from a medieval Royal Palace. Visitors can marvel at its avenue of Wellingtonia trees, the second largest plantation of giant redwoods in the country, planted 150 years ago by the McIntosh family. The park boasts a rich historical background with royal visits recorded since 1066, including significant monarchs like Henry II and Edward III. The park received the Gold Award in Large Conservation Area and was the overall winner in London in Bloom 2019.
Step back in time at Havering Country Park, where royal history meets majestic redwoods in this award-winning natural haven.
For those seeking panoramic views, several designated viewpoints throughout Havering’s parks offer stunning vistas of the London skyline. The parks feature interconnected paths and bridleways linking grassland and woods, though waterproof boots are recommended as trails can become muddy during winter months. Weekday mornings provide peaceful exploration opportunities for visitors hoping to avoid the weekend crowds of families and dog walkers.
Raphael Park spans 44 acres in Romford and provides ample green space for family picnics and riverside strolls. Similarly, Bedfords Park offers numerous opportunities for walking and nature immersion, enhancing the borough’s reputation for countryside-like escapes within urban proximity.
Belhus Woods Country Park covers over 300 acres on the London-Essex border, combining ancient woodlands with scenic walking trails and wetlands perfect for cycling and wildlife spotting. Hornchurch Country Park is also a favorite among locals, featuring scenic trails through beautifully preserved wetlands and woodlands. Nature enthusiasts might glimpse Red Kites, parakeets, or Muntjac Deer during their explorations.
The borough’s nature reserves, primarily managed by Havering Borough Council’s Parks Service, include Cranham Brickfields, Ingrebourne Valley, and Rainham Marsh. These areas support biodiversity through Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) and provide excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Oak-hornbeam woodland areas with undisturbed grassland create habitats for diverse wildlife, while grazing horses and cows can be spotted in open fields and meadows throughout the borough.
