
Harrow Lodge Park Hornchurch London
A sprawling green oasis in Hornchurch, London, featuring a serene lake, playgrounds, woodland walks, and a popular dog-friendly cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Harrow Lodge Park Hornchurch London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling green oasis in Hornchurch, London, featuring a serene lake, playgrounds, woodland walks, and a popular dog-friendly cafe.
"Amazing! I never knew there was a beautiful place like this. The work, the lovely birds, everything was so nice."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Cafe
Bring your furry friend to the dog-friendly cafe by the lake for a treat and a refreshing beer!
🚗 Parking Patience
The car park is small and fills fast. Arrive early or consider public transport for easier access.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Serene Lake
Central Lake
Watch swans, ducks, and various waterfowl glide across the water. A truly peaceful spot for relaxation.

Lakeside Palace Cafe
By the Lake
Enjoy delicious food and friendly service with beautiful views of the lake. A family-run gem.

Children's Play Areas
Multiple locations
Two well-equipped play areas offer fun for kids, with plenty of space to run around.

Woodland Walks
Park edges
Explore shady, woody areas perfect for a refreshing walk, especially with your dog.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Escape
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Cafe
Bring your furry friend to the dog-friendly cafe by the lake for a treat and a refreshing beer!
🚗 Parking Patience
The car park is small and fills fast. Arrive early or consider public transport for easier access.
🚶♀️ Connect to Eastbrookend
Enjoy country walks that extend through to Eastbrookend Country Park for an extended adventure.
🦢 Peaceful Birdwatching
The well-kept lakes are a haven for wildfowl. Perfect for a quiet moment of observation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Cafe
Bring your furry friend to the dog-friendly cafe by the lake for a treat and a refreshing beer!
🚗 Parking Patience
The car park is small and fills fast. Arrive early or consider public transport for easier access.
🚶♀️ Connect to Eastbrookend
Enjoy country walks that extend through to Eastbrookend Country Park for an extended adventure.
🦢 Peaceful Birdwatching
The well-kept lakes are a haven for wildfowl. Perfect for a quiet moment of observation.
📸 Scenic Bridges
Don't miss the two small iron bridges that add a picturesque touch to the park's scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Harrow Lodge Park is a beloved local gem, praised for its beautiful lake, abundant waterfowl, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the dog-friendly cafe and the peaceful woodland walks. While parking can be limited, the overall experience is highly positive, offering a great escape for relaxation and recreation.
"Amazing! I have lived in Hornchurch for 10 years, and my son goes to Harrow lodge leisure centre for activities and I never knew there was a beautiful place like this.
The work, the lovely birds, everything was so nice. I recommend you have a little walk when you need a bit of distraction from work"
Matthew Osayande
"I never knew there was a cafe here until The other day and it's a family-run cafe I was sat down by the lake watching the world go by, and how beautiful it was.
Staff are friendly, there are plenty of country walks that take you through to eastbrookend I do believe, at the start of the park there is a play area for the children, and plenty of space for them to run around."
vicky bentley
"Had a wonderful lunch at Lakeside Palace overlooking the lake. Wonderful food and great staff."
Bridget Matthews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Harrow Lodge Park is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes serve the Hornchurch area, with stops a short walk from the park entrance. Check local transport websites for the most up-to-date route information.
Yes, there is a car park available at Harrow Lodge Park. However, it is noted to be quite small and can fill up quickly, especially during peak times like summer weekends. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to drive.
While specific cycle paths within the park aren't detailed, cycling to the park is a viable option. Secure your bike appropriately upon arrival. The park offers a pleasant environment for a leisurely ride around its paths.
The park generally offers accessible paths, particularly around the lake and main areas. The cafe and playgrounds are also designed with accessibility in mind, making it a welcoming space for visitors with mobility needs.
The nearest train station is Hornchurch, which is on the District Line. From Hornchurch station, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Harrow Lodge Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Harrow Lodge Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Entry to the park and its grounds is free for all visitors.
Harrow Lodge Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific opening and closing times may vary slightly with the seasons, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours.
You do not need to book tickets for the Lakeside Palace cafe. It operates on a walk-in basis. You can simply find a table and order from the friendly staff.
The playgrounds within Harrow Lodge Park are free to use. There are no charges associated with accessing the play equipment for children.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in Harrow Lodge Park. There are plenty of open spaces perfect for picnics.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Harrow Lodge Park features two excellent playgrounds for children. There's also ample open space for running around and playing games, and the lake with its waterfowl provides endless fascination.
Absolutely! Harrow Lodge Park is very dog-friendly. It offers lovely peaceful walks through shady woody areas and well-kept paths, and there's even a dog-friendly cafe.
The park is known for its well-kept lakes teeming with wildfowl, including swans, ducks, and various other birds. It's a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
While not explicitly detailed in all reviews, the park's description mentions sports facilities. It's likely to include areas for casual sports like football or frisbee on the open green spaces.
Reviews mention boats on the lake, suggesting they might be available for hire or are part of the park's features. It's worth checking on-site for current rental availability.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main dining option is the Lakeside Palace cafe, a family-run establishment overlooking the lake. It's praised for its wonderful food and friendly staff.
Yes, the Lakeside Palace cafe is dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for dog owners to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink with their pets.
Reviews indicate a good selection of food, with one visitor mentioning a 'wonderful lunch'. It's a family-run cafe, suggesting a welcoming and varied menu.
Yes, the park offers plenty of open green spaces that are ideal for picnics. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a meal outdoors.
While the Lakeside Palace cafe is the primary dining spot, it's possible that seasonal kiosks might operate during peak times. However, the cafe is the most consistently mentioned option.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake with its waterfowl, the charming iron bridges, and the scenic views from the Lakeside Palace cafe are prime photography spots. The woodland areas also offer beautiful natural light.
Definitely. The abundance of wildfowl on the lake, the mature trees in the woodland areas, and the changing seasons provide excellent opportunities for nature photographers.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage in the reviews. It's advisable to check local regulations and park rules regarding drone operation before flying.
The two small iron bridges are frequently mentioned as picturesque elements within the park, offering great photo opportunities. The lake itself is also a central visual feature.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour can be particularly beautiful over the lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking can be a challenge, so consider arriving early or using public transport. The park is easily accessible and offers a safe environment for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day out without breaking the bank, as park entry is free.
🐶 Dog Owners
There's plenty of space for dogs to roam (while respecting any local leash laws), and the natural environment provides stimulating sights and smells. It’s a great place to socialize your dog in a pleasant and safe setting.
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Peace Seekers
Grab a coffee from the Lakeside Palace cafe and find a bench by the water, or simply wander through the park's quieter sections. It's a place where you can easily spend an hour or two unwinding and recharging.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Beauty
Beyond the lake and woods, the park provides ample open green spaces ideal for picnics or casual games. The connection to Eastbrookend Country Park via walking trails means you can extend your nature exploration, discovering even more of the local landscape. This integration of natural habitats makes Harrow Lodge Park a valuable ecological asset and a delightful destination for nature lovers.
Family Fun and Amenities
The Lakeside Palace cafe is a highlight for families, offering a convenient place to refuel with delicious food and friendly service. It's also noted as being dog-friendly, which can be a bonus for families with pets. The presence of the lake with its fascinating waterfowl adds an educational and engaging element for younger visitors, making the park a well-rounded destination for a family outing.
The Lakeside Palace Cafe Experience
Reviewers highlight the wonderful food and the great staff, making it a popular spot for lunch or a relaxing break. The cafe's dog-friendly policy is a significant draw for many visitors, allowing them to enjoy the park's amenities without leaving their pets behind. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s an integral part of the Harrow Lodge Park experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit