Haw Park Wood
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Haw Park Wood

4.8
·106 reviews·, United Kingdom

A peaceful woodland escape with diverse trails, perfect for family strolls, dog walks, and picnics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Haw Park Wood

Haw Park Wood

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A peaceful woodland escape with diverse trails, perfect for family strolls, dog walks, and picnics.

4.8
(106 reviews)

"A lovely wood for a stroll around with the family, for a couple of hours.. very well sign posted."

Vertical photo
TIP

Picnic Perfect

Plenty of hidden picnic spots await! Pack a lunch and make a day of it. :sandwich:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Dogs are welcome off-leash, but keep an eye out for wildlife. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Woodland Trails

Woodland Trails

Wander through diverse paths, from clear routes to adventurous off-beaten tracks for a true exploration.

Anglers Country Park Lake

Anglers Country Park Lake

Enjoy the serene lake views, often graced by swans, offering a picturesque setting for relaxation.

Watch Tower

Watch Tower

A great way to keep kids engaged, offering a unique vantage point and a sense of adventure.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Haw Park Wood is a fantastic spot for a family stroll or a peaceful dog walk. With well-marked paths and plenty of space to explore, it's ideal for a few hours of fresh air. Consider bringing a picnic to make a full day of it, as there are many scenic spots to relax. Reddit

Parking and Access

Parking is available and affordable, typically around £2.10 for 4 hours, making it a cost-effective day out. Reddit While main paths are clear, venturing off the beaten track can lead to exciting discoveries, but be mindful of cyclists and wildlife. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively, good for families
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

North Shore Roast beef lovers, this one hits hard 👊🔥 Got a Roast Beef 3-way (James River sauce, mayo, and cheese) on a perfectly toasted seeded bun from Wakefield Roast Beef & Seafood—and let me tell you, it delivered. For just $11.99, the roast beef special came with a mountain of onion rings so massive they couldn’t even close the box 😂 Golden, greasy, and absolutely delicious. It’s the kind of ...
@tunastakes
2.7K likes • 111.2K views

Picnic Perfect

Plenty of hidden picnic spots await! Pack a lunch and make a day of it. Reddit :sandwich:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Dogs are welcome off-leash, but keep an eye out for wildlife. Reddit :dog:

Early morning outdoor breakfast on the banks of Haw Park Wood Whilst everyone’s sleeping, I took pebble for an early morning walk, stopped off for a spot of breakfast. Greeted by a few swans. Pebbles first interaction with a swan was comical The water was steady with a thin layer of mist somewhat floating just above but not quite. Almost playing with the idea until banished by the sun. Sun risi...
realantbennett
0 likes • 580 views
#sundayvibes After a long walk with @nigehargreaves, @anglerspark , Haw Park Wood. It was time for a little ‘glow up’ of our garden bar. After buying a new mirror for our dining room, the old mirror was as good as new, so my first thought was, ‘I can recycle’ this. So it now has a new home, and I have to say I love it, what do you think? I cannot wait for our next social gathering 🍾😍 #garden #g...
donnahargreaves1
9 likes • 472 views

Explore Beyond

Venture off main paths for an adventure; just be aware of cyclists. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Family Adventure

The watch tower is a hit with kids, adding an element of discovery to your visit. Reddit :child:

Spin around Haw Park Wood and the Southern Washlands
andyb56
20 likes • 132 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Picnic Perfect

Plenty of hidden picnic spots await! Pack a lunch and make a day of it. Reddit :sandwich:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Dogs are welcome off-leash, but keep an eye out for wildlife. Reddit :dog:

Explore Beyond

Venture off main paths for an adventure; just be aware of cyclists. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Family Adventure

The watch tower is a hit with kids, adding an element of discovery to your visit. Reddit :child:

Affordable Parking

Parking is reasonably priced at around £2.10 for 4 hours. Reddit :car_park:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(106 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Haw Park Wood for its lovely woodland walks, making it a great spot for families and dog owners to spend a few hours. The well-signposted paths, picnic areas, and affordable parking are frequently highlighted as positives. Some note that it can be quiet, with a mix of walkers and cyclists. Reddit+3

"Lovely wood for a stroll around with the family,for a couple of hours..very well sign posted, not only the routes, but to nearby nature walks and lakes.. paths are clear, but venture into the trees, on not so used paths for a great adventure.... Dogs can be off leads, but watch for wildlife as we heard plenty of pheasants, but with grandkids and two dogs, didn't see any, maybe we we're too noisy... Not alot of walkers, but some cyclist.. seating is situated in various areas, so you could make a day, with a picnic.. we saw signs of this is a working forest, with log piles and vehicle tracks... Finding the watch tower was a good way of keeping the kids interested.. All in all a good wood, sure there's more to explore, so Will be back..."

Trevor Smith

"Me and my son had a lovely couple of hours walk in the wood , lots of different routes to walk great place for families and dog walkers definitely a place to relax and unwind."

Kerrie Mcallister

"I live within a mile of haw park and its one of my most favourite places. Its a wonderful walk for kids and families lots to explore. Plenty of picnic areas hidden in the woods. A truly stunning place."

maz poole

What People Like

Peaceful woodland walks
Family-friendly atmosphere
Dog-friendly off-leash areas

What People Dislike

Occasional selfish parking
Can be muddy after rain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Haw Park Wood is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. It's also reachable via public transport, though specific routes may vary. Some visitors enjoy combining a visit with nearby Anglers Country Park and Newmillerdam for a longer walk. TikTok

Yes, cyclists can enjoy the pathways within Haw Park Wood. Some Reddit users mention riding through the area as part of longer cycling routes. Reddit

Absolutely! Haw Park Wood is adjacent to Anglers Country Park, and many visitors combine walks between the two. You can even access it off-road from Anglers Country Park. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are well-signposted routes, including a 'red walk' that takes approximately 50 minutes to complete. Reddit Beyond these, there are many less-used paths for more adventurous exploration. Reddit

The wood is generally well-signposted, guiding you to nearby nature walks and lakes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no direct entrance fee for Haw Park Wood itself. However, parking is available for a small charge, typically around £2.10 for 4 hours. Reddit

As a natural woodland area, Haw Park Wood is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for entry into Haw Park Wood. It's a public access area. Reddit

While there isn't a formal visitor center, the paths are well-signposted with information about nearby nature walks and lakes. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Daylight hours are best for exploration. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the various woodland trails. The watch tower is a popular feature for families. Reddit+1

Yes, it's a wonderful place for families with lots to explore. The watch tower is a particular hit with kids, and the varied paths offer a sense of adventure. Reddit+1

Dogs are welcome and can be off-leash, but it's advised to be mindful of wildlife. Reddit+1

Yes, there are plenty of picnic areas, some hidden within the woods, making it ideal for a day out. Reddit+1

Visitors have reported hearing pheasants and seeing swans on the nearby lake. InstagramReddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no cafes or restaurants directly within Haw Park Wood. Visitors typically bring their own picnics. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Haw Park Wood is a fantastic spot for picnics, with numerous seating areas and scenic locations. Reddit+1

The nearest amenities would likely be in nearby towns or at Anglers Country Park, which may have a cafe. Reddit

Typically, there are no regular food stalls or vendors within Haw Park Wood itself. Reddit

Bring your own food, drinks, and any picnic essentials like blankets or reusable cutlery. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake with its swans, the woodland paths, and the watch tower offer great photographic opportunities. The changing seasons also provide beautiful backdrops. Instagram

While you might not see large mammals, the area is good for birdwatching, especially near the lake with swans. Instagram+1

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, especially with any mist on the water. Instagram

Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted in natural or public areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

Yes, the watch tower is a prominent feature and a popular subject for photos, especially with children. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Haw Park Wood is an excellent choice for a family outing. The well-marked trails are easy for little legs to navigate, and the watch tower provides an exciting focal point for children's exploration. Reddit+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, turning your visit into a full day of fun. Reddit+1

Consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching near the lake, and encourage your children to look for different types of trees and plants. The off-leash dog policy also means furry family members can join the adventure. Reddit+1

🐶 Dog Walkers

Dog owners will find Haw Park Wood to be a very accommodating destination. Dogs are allowed off-leash, allowing them to roam and enjoy the space freely. Reddit+1 The variety of paths, from open trails to more secluded woodland routes, offers diverse walking experiences for your canine companions. Reddit

Be aware that other visitors, including cyclists and families with children, will be present, so keeping your dog under control is recommended. Reddit+1 The muddy sections after rain can be a fun challenge for dogs, but be prepared for a potential bath afterwards! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers

For those who appreciate nature and photography, Haw Park Wood offers serene landscapes and opportunities for capturing the outdoors. The lake, often visited by swans, provides a tranquil setting, especially during misty mornings. Instagram+1 The woodland itself, with its changing seasonal colors, offers a beautiful backdrop for photography. Instagram

Explore the various trails to discover different perspectives, from open vistas to intimate woodland scenes. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance your photographic efforts. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

Haw Park Wood offers a network of trails catering to various preferences. The main paths are well-maintained and clearly signposted, making them ideal for family strolls and casual walkers. Reddit For those seeking a bit more adventure, venturing onto the less-used paths can lead to hidden nooks and a more immersive woodland experience. Reddit Cyclists also frequent the area, so be mindful of sharing the paths. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy combining a walk through Haw Park Wood with adjacent areas like Anglers Country Park and Newmillerdam, creating longer, more varied routes. TikTok The 'red walk' is a popular, well-signposted loop that takes around 50 minutes to complete, offering a good overview of the wood's charm. Reddit

Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to explore off the main paths, as some areas can become muddy after rain. Instagram

Family and Dog-Friendly Activities

Haw Park Wood is a fantastic destination for families and dog owners alike. The wood provides ample space for children to explore and burn energy, with the watch tower being a particular highlight that adds an element of discovery to the visit. Reddit+1

Dog walkers will find it a welcoming environment, as dogs are permitted off-leash. Reddit+1 However, it's always a good idea to keep your pets under control, especially when encountering wildlife such as pheasants or near the water where swans are present. InstagramReddit The presence of cyclists means keeping dogs close by is also advisable. Reddit

With numerous picnic spots scattered throughout the wood, it's easy to plan a full day out. Pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature. Reddit+1

Nature and Wildlife

The natural beauty of Haw Park Wood is a significant draw for visitors. The woodland itself is a mix of mature trees and open spaces, providing a habitat for various flora and fauna. Instagram While not a prime location for spotting large mammals, the area is known for its birdlife. Reddit

The adjacent lake at Anglers Country Park is often frequented by swans, offering a picturesque scene and opportunities for birdwatching. Instagram+1 Visitors have also reported hearing pheasants within the woods. Reddit The changing seasons bring different visual delights, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers. Instagram

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