Harlow Town Park: A Vast Urban Oasis of Gardens and Family Fun
Explore 164 acres of gardens, wildlife, and family fun in Harlow’s award-winning urban park with free entry year-round.
Harlow Town Park, a sprawling 164-acre Grade II listed green space in Essex, offers diverse gardens, a water garden, adventure playgrounds, Pets' Corner, and recreational facilities. Designed by Dame Sylvia Crowe, it features scenic landscapes, meadows, and a bandstand, making it a beloved destination for families and nature lovers. The park boasts a Green Flag Award for excellence and provides free entry year-round.
A brief summary to Harlow Town Park
- Park Ln, Harlow, CM20 2QQ, GB
- +441279446655
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit Pets' Corner for free animal encounters; small donations and animal feed are appreciated.
- Enjoy refreshments at Spurriers House Café or the nearby Greyhound pub for a relaxing break.
- Take advantage of free weekend parking to make your visit hassle-free.
- Explore the Water Garden early in the morning for serene views and fewer crowds.
- Check the local event calendar for summer bandstand concerts and seasonal festivities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From London Liverpool Street, take a train to Harlow Town station, approximately 30-40 minutes. The park is a 10-minute walk from the station. Trains run frequently, and tickets cost around £10-£15 return.
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Bus
Bus services 59, 508, 509, and 510 connect central Harlow to the park area. Journey times vary between 15-25 minutes. Single fares are approximately £2-£3. Buses run regularly throughout the day.
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Car
Driving to Harlow Town Park takes about 15-25 minutes from central Harlow. Weekend parking is free for up to 2 hours, with longer stays charged around £1.10 for 5 hours. Note that parking availability can vary during events.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the park is pleasant and accessible, with flat, paved paths. Walking times range from 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. Suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.
Harlow Town Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Harlow Town Park
A Heritage of Thoughtful Landscape Design
Harlow Town Park is one of the largest urban parks in the UK, covering over 160 acres of beautifully maintained green space. Opened in 1957, it was designed by Dame Sylvia Crowe, a pioneering landscape architect, alongside Frederick Gibberd. Their vision created a harmonious blend of natural and designed elements, earning the park a Grade II listing for its historic and aesthetic importance. The park’s layout features a series of distinctive gardens, including the Water Garden with its cascading pools, the Newfoundland Garden, Specimen Garden, Sensory Garden, and the Walled Garden, each offering unique botanical experiences.Rich Variety of Gardens and Natural Features
Visitors can explore five unique themed gardens that showcase a range of plant species and landscape styles. The Water Garden is a central highlight, with three interconnected pools and flowing cascades creating tranquil water features surrounded by lawns and woodland. The park also includes the Stort Valley Meadows and Peace Wood, providing natural habitats and peaceful walking areas. These spaces support local wildlife and offer scenic views, making the park a refuge for both people and nature.Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities
Harlow Town Park is especially popular with families, thanks to its extensive facilities. Pets' Corner is a standout, featuring a variety of traditional farm animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and ducks, alongside more exotic residents like reindeer, llamas, and alpacas. Entry to Pets' Corner is free, with small donations welcomed. The park also offers an adventure playground, an inclusive play area designed for children of all abilities, a skate park, and an outdoor gym. Seasonal features include a paddling pool open in summer and a bandstand hosting music events during warmer months.Community Hub with Refreshments and Events
Spurriers House Café, housed in a historic 1860s building within the park, provides refreshments including coffee and ice cream, while the nearby Greyhound pub offers dining options. The park regularly hosts community events such as summer concerts at the bandstand and an annual fireworks display in early November. These activities enhance the park’s role as a vibrant social and cultural space for Harlow residents and visitors alike.Recognition and Accessibility
Harlow Town Park has been awarded the Green Flag Award for seven consecutive years, recognizing it as one of the highest quality green spaces in the UK. The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk, with well-maintained paths that are accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. Free parking is available on weekends, and the park is located close to Harlow Town train station, making it easy to reach by public transport.A Place for Relaxation and Recreation
Whether you seek a peaceful stroll through gardens, a lively day of play with children, or a spot for yoga and mindfulness, Harlow Town Park offers a diverse experience. Its combination of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and community spirit makes it a cherished urban oasis in Essex.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gypsy Stone
20.9 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Nigel’s Gate
21.0 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
27.8 km
Comfortable, accessible 3-star hotel near Elstree Studios with great dining and easy London connections.
Hackney Museum
28.1 km
Explore Hackney Museum, a vibrant cultural destination showcasing Hackney's rich history and diverse community through engaging exhibits and events.
Audley End House and Gardens
28.3 km
Explore the grand Audley End House and its stunning gardens, a historical gem in Saffron Walden showcasing England's heritage and architectural beauty.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
28.5 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
International House
29.1 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Bridge End Garden
29.2 km
Explore the enchanting Bridge End Garden in Saffron Walden, a serene park filled with vibrant flowers, historic features, and tranquil pathways.
Saffron Walden Museum
29.2 km
Explore Saffron Walden Museum, a historical gem showcasing local heritage, archaeology, and natural history in a charming setting.
Walden Castle
29.2 km
A quiet medieval ruin on a grassy mound, Walden Castle in Saffron Walden offers a glimpse into 12th-century power struggles and centuries of quiet decay.
Barnards Miniature Railway
29.5 km
Discover the magic of model trains at Barnards Miniature Railway, a charming attraction in Brentwood offering fun for all ages amidst beautiful landscapes.
Scratchwood
29.6 km
Discover Scratchwood, a serene woodland retreat perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures in the heart of lush greenery.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
29.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
29.8 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Shoreditch Park
29.9 km
Experience the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Shoreditch Park, an urban oasis in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queensgate Centre
0.8 km
Queensgate Centre in Harlow offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment with excellent accessibility and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Harvey Centre
1.1 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination at the heart of Harlow, blending high street brands with local charm.
Parndon Wood Nature Reserve
3.7 km
Explore centuries-old woodland with tranquil trails, wildlife hides, and welcoming facilities in the heart of Harlow’s green sanctuary.
The Gibberd Garden
3.8 km
Discover The Gibberd Garden, a tranquil 9-acre post-war sculpture haven blending art and nature in the heart of Harlow.
Rye House Gatehouse
6.4 km
Explore one of England’s earliest brick houses with rich Tudor history and scenic riverside charm in Hoddesdon.
The Trading Centre
7.8 km
Explore over 30 years of curated antiques and timeless treasures at Hoddesdon’s trusted Trading Centre on High Street.
Hertford Heath Nature Reserve
9.6 km
Explore the peaceful heathland and woodland trails of Hertford Heath Nature Reserve, a vibrant haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Hill Hall
12.1 km
Explore Hill Hall, Essex’s exquisite Elizabethan mansion blending Renaissance art, French-inspired architecture, and Tudor intellectual legacy.
Epping Forest District Museum
12.2 km
Discover centuries of local history and culture in a family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits and a peaceful garden in Waltham Abbey.
National Trust - Hatfield Forest
12.6 km
Explore ancient oaks, serene lakes, and rich wildlife in Essex’s last intact medieval royal hunting forest.
Epping Forest
12.7 km
Explore ancient woodlands, rich wildlife, and historic landmarks in London’s sprawling natural sanctuary, Epping Forest.
Willowmead
13.4 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Hertford offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful urban escape.
Panshanger Park
14.6 km
Explore 400 hectares of historic Hertfordshire countryside with ancient oaks, lakes, and abundant wildlife at Panshanger Park.
Capel Manor Gardens
15.2 km
Explore 30 acres of vibrant themed gardens, a mini zoo, and enchanting landscapes at Capel Manor Gardens in North London.
Mountfitchet Castle & Norman Village
15.5 km
Step into 11th-century Norman England at this unique open-air museum, where a reconstructed Motte and Bailey castle, a medieval village, and roaming animals create a full-day family adventure.
Essential places to dine
The Fox & Hounds Restaurant & Pub
4.6 km
A Michelin-recognized gastropub in Hunsdon serving seasonal British and Mediterranean dishes in a warm, rustic setting.
The Cart Shed Restaurant
6.7 km
A rustic yet refined British dining experience in the tranquil village of Thornwood near Epping, blending seasonal local produce with countryside charm.
The Chequers Matching Green
8.6 km
A charming gastro-pub overlooking Matching Green’s cricket pitch, blending traditional English village charm with modern dining comfort.
College Arms
9.8 km
Traditional charm meets contemporary comfort at College Arms, a cozy gastropub nestled in Hertford Heath’s tranquil countryside.
The Goat
9.9 km
Experience authentic British cuisine and warm hospitality at The Goat in Hertford Heath - the perfect pub for every traveler.
Cast Iron Grill
11.2 km
Elegant international cuisine in a historic manor setting overlooking a championship golf course in Hertfordshire’s peaceful countryside.
Veyso’s Brasserie
12.2 km
Award-winning Turkish cuisine and glamorous dining in the heart of Hertford, blending tradition with contemporary flair.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen & Bar - Hertford
12.2 km
Savor sustainably sourced modern British cuisine in a warm, spacious Hertford bistro with attentive service and seasonal menus.
Dinnio Restaurant
12.4 km
A vibrant Mediterranean dining experience blending Italian and Turkish flavors in the heart of Hertford’s historic Fore Street.
The Old Barge
12.5 km
Discover The Old Barge: A charming English pub offering delicious cuisine, live music, and scenic views along the waterways.
The Woolpack
12.6 km
Experience the best of British hospitality at The Woolpack - enjoy delicious food, local ales, and live music in Hertford's charming pub atmosphere.
ILVINO RESTAURANT
12.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Hertford at ILVINO Restaurant, a cozy spot for pasta, pizza, and seafood lovers.
Gables Restaurant - Home
15.9 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean cuisine and warm hospitality in the charming village setting of Hertford’s Gables Restaurant.
Cowper Arms Hertford
16.5 km
A charming Hertford gastropub blending traditional British fare with modern style and a welcoming atmosphere.
Alec's Restaurant
17.5 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
7.7 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Blush Boutique Essex
8.8 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
Mint of Hertford
12.2 km
Discover sustainable luxury and personalized styling at Mint of Hertford, your destination for exquisite pre-loved ladies’ fashion in Hertford.
Eye Mind Heart
12.3 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish homewares, and charming toys at Eye Mind Heart, Hertford’s beloved boutique shop for all ages.
Ruby Room
12.4 km
Discover quirky, independent women’s fashion and unique gifts at Ruby Room, Hertford’s family-run boutique celebrating style across generations.
Gingerlillie Boutique - Women's Clothing in Hertford
12.4 km
Discover curated designer women's fashion and accessories with personalized service in the heart of Hertford’s historic Market Place.
Rossi's Attic
12.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and charming collectibles at Rossi's Attic, Hertford’s beloved boutique gift and antique shop.
The Women's Society Boutique
12.6 km
Hertford’s award-winning independent designer boutique, offering curated womenswear, accessories and personal styling in a charming historic setting.
Frankie and Olive
12.6 km
Discover stylish, sustainable women's clothing and unique gifts at Frankie and Olive, Hertford’s ethical boutique gem.
Magpie Amore
12.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and gifts at Magpie Amore, Hertford’s curated boutique for exceptional style and sustainable shopping.
Retail Therapy
12.7 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion curated globally in Hertford’s charming boutique since 2003.
Spry Scents
20.2 km
Explore the enchanting world of fragrances at Spry Scents in Welwyn Garden City, where every scent tells a story.
The Curiosity Shop
20.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Howard Centre
21.1 km
Welwyn Garden City’s vibrant shopping centre offering diverse stores, dining, and community events in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Miss Boutique
21.8 km
Discover curated fashion and unique gifts in Knebworth’s cozy and stylish Miss Boutique on London Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar People
11.8 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
Jungle Bar
12.2 km
Experience Hertford’s vibrant nightlife in a lush jungle-themed bar with live DJs, jazz, and karaoke nights that keep the party going till dawn.
Cinnabar
12.3 km
Experience Hertford’s vibrant nightlife and dining at Cinnabar, a stylish bar, nightclub, and hotel all in one dynamic venue.
The Snug Bar Hertford
12.3 km
A cozy, lively cocktail bar in Hertford’s town centre, perfect for handcrafted drinks, friendly service, and vibrant nights out.
The Practitioner
12.3 km
A vibrant Hertford pub blending unique style, fresh cocktails, and welcoming vibes on Fore Street.
White Hart
12.4 km
A lively British pub in Hertford’s Salisbury Square, blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Blackbirds
12.4 km
Traditional British pub with lively sports, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in Hertford’s historic Parliament Square.
Core & Popworld - Hertford
12.4 km
A lively two-floor nightclub and bar in Hertford offering pop hits, themed club nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
The Quiet Man
12.4 km
Experience traditional British pub warmth and lively charm in Hertford’s inviting Quiet Man, complete with live music and a welcoming beer garden.
The White Horse Hertford
12.5 km
Classic British pub charm meets modern dining and lively atmosphere in the heart of Hertford’s Castle Street.
Baar Baar- Multicuisine & Sports Bar
12.6 km
A vibrant multicuisine sports bar in Hertford blending lively atmosphere, great food, and live sports for an unforgettable social experience.
Old Cross Tavern
12.7 km
Historic Hertford pub renowned for award-winning ales, traditional charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere in a Grade II-listed setting.
The Black Horse Hertford
12.7 km
Historic 1642 timbered pub in Hertford with wood-fired pizzas, real ales, a large garden, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Millstream
13.1 km
Classic British pub charm meets quality dining and warm hospitality in Hertford’s welcoming Millstream.
The Beehive
15.8 km
A charming Hertford country pub offering hearty British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in Epping Green.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
8.7 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
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12.5 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Hertford Club
12.5 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
Faces NightClub
22.4 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
The Forum Hertfordshire
23.7 km
A lively nightclub and live music venue at University of Hertfordshire, hosting diverse cultural events and vibrant nightlife in Hatfield.
Club Tantalize
26.2 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
26.3 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Popworld - Chelmsford
26.4 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Havana
30.1 km
Vibrant late-night nightclub and bar in St Albans offering energetic music and lively weekend entertainment.
Basing House - Shoreditch
30.3 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Egg London Nightclub
30.4 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
Trafik
30.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Hoxton Pony
30.7 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
30.8 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
LA Lounge
30.9 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
