Hainault Forest Country Park

Hainault Forest Country Park is a large public green space covering around 334 acres, located on the border between northeast London and Essex, near Chigwell and Romford. It is one of the few remaining parts of the ancient Forest of Essex and is recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The park is jointly managed by the Woodland Trust and Redbridge Council.

The forest has a long history dating back to medieval times when it was part of a royal hunting ground. Much of it was cleared for farmland in the 1850s, but efforts to preserve part of the area led to the creation of the country park in 1906. Since then, it has been a valued green space for both recreation and wildlife conservation.

Hainault Forest offers a variety of walking and nature trails through ancient woodland, open meadows, and fields. A large lake provides boating opportunities in the warmer months, and the park is home to a wide range of birds and other wildlife.

One of the park’s most popular features is Foxburrows Farm, a small educational farm that is free to visit and has animals such as alpacas, goats, pigs, rabbits, and peacocks. There is also a large, natural-style adventure playground suitable for children, with climbing structures and slides made from wood.

The 1856 Café, located in a restored Victorian barn, serves hot and cold meals, drinks, and snacks. There is also a visitor centre managed by the Woodland Trust, which offers information on the history, ecology, and conservation of the forest, along with a small gift shop.

Hainault Forest Country Park is open every day and is free to enter. Paid parking is available on-site, and the park is accessible by public transport, including nearby Hainault Underground Station on the Central line and several local bus routes. It is a popular destination for families, walkers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape close to London.

Created: 22  April  2025  Edited: 22  April  2025