Farthing Downs
Sprawling chalk grassland with wildflowers, ancient woods, and panoramic views, perfect for tranquil walks and nature escapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers in bloom, fresh air
Farthing Downs
Best Time
Wildflowers in bloom, fresh air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sprawling chalk grassland with wildflowers, ancient woods, and panoramic views, perfect for tranquil walks and nature escapes.
"A glorious walk with beautiful views, perfect for getting lost in the woods and reconnecting with nature."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!
🐶 Dogs on Leads Near Livestock
Keep your furry friends on a leash when you see cattle or sheep grazing to ensure everyone's safety.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,084 reviews
Type
Park
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rolling Grasslands & Wildflowers
Expansive meadows bursting with seasonal wildflowers, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Ancient Woodlands
Explore serene wooded areas, perfect for getting lost in nature and enjoying peaceful walks.
Panoramic Views
Stunning vistas stretching across Coulsdon, Croydon, Crystal Palace, and even London on clear days.
Grazing Livestock
Observe cattle and sheep grazing freely, adding a charming rural element to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Prepare for Nature's Charm
Parking and Access: Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Birthday walk or hike recommendations in or outside of London :)
Heya, it’s my birthday next month and I’m looking to go for a nice walk with some friends and make some memories this year instead of just going to the pub. Happy to get on the train for an hour or so but still want to be able to get home for the evening to meet up with any…
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!
🐶 Dogs on Leads Near Livestock
Keep your furry friends on a leash when you see cattle or sheep grazing to ensure everyone's safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
The main car park at the top is now pay-and-display with cameras. Be prepared for potential charges.
🗺️ Explore the Woods
Don't just stick to the open fields; the wooded areas offer a different, tranquil experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!
🐶 Dogs on Leads Near Livestock
Keep your furry friends on a leash when you see cattle or sheep grazing to ensure everyone's safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
The main car park at the top is now pay-and-display with cameras. Be prepared for potential charges.
🗺️ Explore the Woods
Don't just stick to the open fields; the wooded areas offer a different, tranquil experience.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your experience by spotting wildlife and enjoying the distant cityscapes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Farthing Downs is praised for its beautiful, sprawling grasslands and stunning panoramic views, offering a tranquil escape into nature. Visitors enjoy the opportunity to see grazing livestock and explore both open fields and wooded areas. However, recent changes to parking, including new fees and camera monitoring, have been a point of contention for some.
"welcome to Farthing Downs, the location for the childrens book 'The Animals of Farthing Woods'
A glourious walk in the middle of Coulsdon (in between both Coulsdon & Old Coulsdon) with beautiful views of the town, Hooley, Croydon, Crystal Palace & London
perfect for walking (with dogs), bike riding, horse riding, school trips
public & bridle paths, benches scattered throughout
car park in the middle of the downs
perfect to get lost in the woods
cattle & sheep graze on the land (dogs must be on leads when near by)
Coulsdon South Train Station is near by"
Jonny
"Farthing Downs and Happy Valley offer a beautiful escape into nature, with rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and stunning views. The combination of open grasslands and dense trees makes for a varied and scenic walk, perfect for those who love a mix of landscapes. The fresh air and birdsong add to the peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for a long, refreshing hike.
However, the trails can get quite muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is a must. Despite the mud, it’s a wonderful place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the countryside."
K Mistry
"It's a view point near Coulsdon. Had road walking and cycling access. Had great views of surrounding countryside."
RK Sachar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and use the pay-and-display car park at the top. Alternatively, Coulsdon South Train Station is nearby, offering access via public transport.
Yes, Coulsdon South Train Station is a convenient option, though you may need to walk or take a short bus ride from there to the downs themselves.
There is a small pay-and-display car park at the top of the downs, which is monitored by cameras.
Yes, Farthing Downs has bridle paths and is suitable for cycling, offering scenic routes through the grasslands.
Absolutely! It's a beautiful spot for a walk with friends, offering lovely views and a natural escape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Farthing Downs itself is free. However, there is a charge for parking in the main car park at the top.
Farthing Downs is a natural open space and is generally accessible at all times. However, the car park may have specific operating hours.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Farthing Downs as it is a public open space. Parking fees are paid on arrival.
The main restriction is that dogs must be kept on a lead when near grazing cattle and sheep for their safety and yours.
Parking is pay-and-display. It's advisable to check the specific payment methods available at the machine or via any associated app.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, hiking, horseback riding, cycling, dog walking, and simply relaxing while taking in the beautiful scenery.
There are no specific facilities like cafes directly on the downs. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments and check for nearby amenities in Coulsdon.
Yes, it's a popular spot for dog walkers, but remember to keep dogs on a lead near livestock.
You can often see cattle and sheep grazing, and if you're lucky, bats at dusk. The area is also rich in birdlife.
Generally, it's a safe area, especially during daylight hours. However, as with any open space, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling hills, wildflower meadows in bloom, and the panoramic viewpoints offering views of the city are excellent for photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the landscape. Sunsets can be spectacular.
Yes, you can photograph the cattle and sheep, but maintain a safe distance and never disturb them.
Look for the changing seasons, the wildflowers, the distant cityscapes, and the interplay of light and shadow on the hills.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant views or wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit