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Havering Country Park

4.6
·475 reviews·Havering-atte-Bower, United Kingdom

Discover a surprising forest gem with towering Giant Redwoods and stunning London skyline views, offering a tranquil escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and quiet escape

CrowdLow
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Havering Country Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and quiet escape

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a surprising forest gem with towering Giant Redwoods and stunning London skyline views, offering a tranquil escape.

4.6
(475 reviews)

"A refreshing escape into nature with majestic redwoods and breathtaking city vistas."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Waterproof Boots

Paths can be very muddy; waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Plenty of space for dogs to roam and explore on woodland paths and open fields.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giant Redwood Grove

Giant Redwood Grove

Central Havering Country Park

Stand in awe of majestic American Redwoods, a surprising forest gem in Essex.

InstagramReddit
Panoramic London Views

Panoramic London Views

Designated viewpoints

Catch breathtaking vistas of the London skyline, a perfect backdrop for photos.

TikTok
Grazing Horses and Cows

Grazing Horses and Cows

Open fields and meadows

Experience rural charm with resident horses and cows adding to the pastoral atmosphere.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mud!

Havering Country Park is a natural wonderland, but that means muddy paths, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must for comfortable exploration. Horse droppings are also common, so watch your step! Reddit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While beautiful year-round, weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy with dog walkers and families, so if you seek solitude, plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and quiet escape
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light on redwoods
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Havering country park outside London UK😍🇬🇧 When you want a break from the buzz in London you can come here for a truly relaxing experience walking in the forest with giant redwood trees and amazing big scenery all around❤️ #london #hiddengem #forest #redwoodforest #countrypark
swedish_drone_mafia
198 likes • 2.8K views

🥾 Wear Waterproof Boots

Paths can be very muddy; waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable walk. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Plenty of space for dogs to roam and explore on woodland paths and open fields. InstagramReddit

Havering Country Park: Reminded us that Victorians stole sequoias and rebranded them “wellingtonia” after the Duke of Wellington. We explored a new-to-us park with a millennia long mostly royal history, making for a beautiful day. The redwoods have yet to see two centuries of the local history.
lehmanrebecca
15 likes • 338 views
Lovely walk round havering country park with lill Bruno ..Georgina n her dolly n Lucas such a good lill pack All always impeccably behaved together n then to see n terrorise nanny for n hour haha safe to say there knackered now 🥰💞🐻💞🐶💞🐻💞🐶
loopylill_thedutchy
19 likes • 238 views

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the unique photo opportunities with redwoods and London skyline. TikTok

🌳 Enjoy the Tranquility

Weekdays are ideal for a quiet, reflective escape from city life. Reddit

A couple of weeks ago saw a programme about the Giant Redwood plantation at Havering Country Park so checked them out today. Shame we’ll all be long gone before they reach the size of the absolute giants in California 🤯 #GiantRedwood #GiantRedwoods #WellingtoniaTree #Wellingtonia #Wellingtons #Havering #Hornchurch #TreeHugger #Green
mattyregan
10 likes • 277 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Waterproof Boots

Paths can be very muddy; waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable walk. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Plenty of space for dogs to roam and explore on woodland paths and open fields. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the unique photo opportunities with redwoods and London skyline. TikTok

🌳 Enjoy the Tranquility

Weekdays are ideal for a quiet, reflective escape from city life. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(475 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Havering Country Park for its beautiful natural scenery, especially the impressive Giant Redwood grove and the surprising panoramic views of London. It's a tranquil escape, particularly appreciated on weekdays for its peaceful atmosphere and the charm of grazing animals. Some note the paths can be muddy and suggest appropriate footwear.

"Beautiful nature with animals and breathtaking views in places.
❗️There is a good spot for TickTockers with amazing views over London city.

Havering Park has a rich history rooted in its former role as part of the estate of the Royal Palace of Havering, dating back to the 11th century. The palace, initially established by Edward the Confessor as a hunting lodge, was abandoned in the 17th century, and the land was later acquired by the McIntosh family. The park was eventually opened to the public in 1976."

Alex Smirnov

"Great place. Perfect for a nature lover inside the city. Muddy and horse droppings road. So better take your Water resistance boots. Loved walking there. Mainly went for American Redwood trees. Amazing views. Horses."

sadia shabnam

"Beautiful giant redwoods and very well maintained, litter-free, and quiet walking paths."

Kaitlyn Kline

What People Like

Majestic Giant Redwoods
Panoramic London views
Peaceful weekday visits

What People Dislike

Muddy paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Havering Country Park is accessible by car, with parking available. Public transport options include bus routes that stop nearby, followed by a short walk. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Havering Country Park, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. TikTok

Cycling is a great way to reach the park, with various routes leading to its entrances. There are often designated cycle paths within the park itself. Instagram

While the park has well-trodden paths, a map can be helpful for exploring further afield. Many visitors enjoy simply wandering and discovering its different areas. Reddit

Yes, Havering Country Park offers a refreshing escape from the city buzz and is accessible for day trips from central London. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Havering Country Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible natural escape for everyone. Reddit

The park is typically open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time for exploration throughout the day. It's best to check local council websites for any specific seasonal changes. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for entry to Havering Country Park as it is a public park. Reddit

While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, local community groups sometimes organize walks. It's worth checking local event listings. Reddit

Yes, the park's open spaces and trails can accommodate groups. However, for very large organized events, it's advisable to contact the park management beforehand. Instagram

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

The park's main draws include its impressive grove of Giant Redwoods, scenic walking trails, open fields, and opportunities to see grazing horses and cows. InstagramReddit

Restroom facilities may be available, but cafes are generally not present within the park. It's recommended to bring your own refreshments and snacks. Reddit

Absolutely! Children will enjoy exploring the woods, open spaces for running, and the chance to see animals. Remember to supervise them closely, especially on muddy paths. Instagram

Besides the resident horses and cows, you might spot various bird species and other small woodland creatures. Reddit

Yes, Havering Country Park is a wonderful spot for picnics. There are plenty of open grassy areas perfect for spreading out a blanket. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Giant Redwood grove offers dramatic shots, while viewpoints provide stunning cityscapes. The open fields with grazing animals also make for picturesque scenes. TikTokInstagram

While drone footage can capture the park's expanse, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in public spaces to ensure compliance. TikTok

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be good for capturing the scale of the redwoods. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for the redwoods and landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Havering Country Park is a fantastic destination for families. The open fields are perfect for kids to run and play, and the woodland paths offer an exciting sense of adventure. Seeing the grazing horses and cows is always a hit with children, adding an element of discovery to the visit. InstagramReddit

Remember to pack waterproof boots for everyone, as the paths can get muddy. Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. It's a great place for a family picnic, offering a safe and engaging natural environment for a day out. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Havering Country Park is ideal. Weekday visits offer the most tranquility, allowing for quiet contemplation amidst the Giant Redwoods and scenic views. Reddit The park's well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate, whether you're looking for a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll. Reddit

Find a quiet bench overlooking the flatlands to simply sit and soak in the scenery. The panoramic London views also provide a unique backdrop for reflection. It's a perfect spot to unwind, de-stress, and reconnect with nature. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Havering Country Park is a paradise for dogs! The extensive woodland trails and large open fields provide ample space for your furry friends to explore and enjoy zoomies. InstagramReddit It's a popular spot for dog walkers, so your pup might even make some new friends. Reddit

Be mindful of horse droppings on the paths and ensure your dog is under control, especially near the grazing animals. While many areas allow off-leash exploration, always be aware of your surroundings and other park users. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Giant Redwoods

Havering Country Park is home to a remarkable plantation of Giant Redwoods (Sequoiadendron giganteum), also known as Wellingtonia trees. Planted in the mid-19th century, these trees are a testament to Victorian horticultural ambition. While they may not reach the colossal sizes of their Californian counterparts, their imposing trunks and towering presence create an awe-inspiring spectacle. Visitors often remark on the 'little wiggly branches' high up, resembling an octopus's arms, and the surprisingly small pinecones found on the forest floor. InstagramReddit+1

Walking amongst these giants offers a unique sensory experience. The air is often cooler and carries the scent of pine. The sheer scale of the trees can make you feel incredibly small, fostering a sense of wonder and connection with nature. It's a reminder of the slow, steady growth of the natural world, a stark contrast to the fast pace of urban life just beyond the park's borders. TikTokInstagram

For photographers, the redwood grove presents a fantastic opportunity. The dramatic scale, dappled light filtering through the canopy, and the textured bark provide endless visual interest. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the grandeur of nature and capture some truly memorable shots. TikTokInstagram

A Glimpse of London's Skyline

One of the unexpected delights of Havering Country Park is the opportunity to witness panoramic views of the London skyline. Certain vantage points within the park offer clear vistas across the urban sprawl, providing a striking contrast to the natural environment. This unique juxtaposition allows visitors to appreciate both the tranquility of the countryside and the proximity to the bustling capital. TikTok

These viewpoints are often highlighted by visitors and content creators for their photographic potential. They serve as a reminder that even within the green expanse of a country park, the city is never too far away. It’s a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and take in the expansive scenery, perhaps even spotting familiar landmarks in the distance. TikTok

For those looking to capture stunning images, timing your visit for sunrise or sunset can yield particularly dramatic and colorful skies over the city. The interplay of natural light and the urban landscape creates a dynamic and memorable photographic subject. TikTok

History and Rural Charm

Havering Country Park boasts a rich history, once forming part of the Royal Palace of Havering estate, with origins tracing back to the 11th century. The land has seen royal hunting lodges and later became part of private estates before being opened to the public in 1976. This historical depth adds another layer of interest to the park's natural beauty. InstagramReddit

Adding to its charm are the resident horses and cows that graze in the open fields. Their presence contributes to a genuine rural atmosphere, making it feel like a true slice of the countryside. Visitors often find joy in observing these animals as they rest or wander, enhancing the peaceful and pastoral ambiance of the park. Reddit

The park is also a popular destination for dog walkers, with ample space for canine companions to enjoy off-leash exploration on the woodland trails and open grassy areas. This makes it a welcoming place for families and pet owners alike, fostering a sense of community among visitors. InstagramReddit

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