Weald Country Park: Historic Essex Woodland and Meadows
Explore 520 acres of historic Essex parkland with deer, lakes, play trails, and scenic walking and cycling routes for all ages.
Weald Country Park is a sprawling 520-acre natural haven in Brentwood, Essex, featuring ancient woodland, meadows, lakes, and a historic deer park. With roots dating back over 700 years, the park offers scenic walking and cycling trails, children’s play areas including the Stick Man trail, picnic spots, and opportunities to spot and feed fallow deer. Facilities include a visitor centre with a café, toilets, and baby-changing amenities, making it a perfect day out for families and nature lovers.
A brief summary to Weald Country Park
- Weald Rd, Brentwood, CM14 5QS, GB
- +441277261343
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Purchase deer and duck food at the visitor centre to safely feed the park’s fallow deer.
- Visit the Belvedere car park for the best hill views and a picnic near the historic folly remains.
- Bring a bicycle to enjoy the well-surfaced cycling paths that loop around woodlands and meadows.
- Pick up a Stick Man trail map from the café to engage children with nature-themed play.
- Check fishing permit requirements and purchase a daily permit if you plan to fish in the lakes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Brentwood takes approximately 10-15 minutes via the A1023 and Weald Road. Pay-and-display parking is available at four car parks with charges ranging from £3.00 for up to one hour to £6.30 for all day. Disabled parking is provided. Coaches must arrange parking in advance with a £15 charge.
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Train and Bus
From Brentwood railway station, located about 2 miles from the park, take a local bus or taxi to Weald Country Park. Bus services run regularly but may require a short walk from the nearest stop. Taxi rides take approximately 10 minutes and cost around £8-£12.
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Cycling
Cycling to the park from Brentwood town centre is feasible via local roads and dedicated cycle paths, taking around 20-30 minutes depending on your pace. The park offers designated cycling paths within its grounds for safe and scenic rides.
Weald Country 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 Weald Country Park
A Landscape Shaped by Centuries of History
Weald Country Park, nestled in South Weald on the edge of Brentwood, Essex, spans over 520 acres of diverse landscapes including woodland, lakes, meadows, and open grassland. The park’s origins trace back more than 700 years, originally serving as a medieval deer park associated with Weald Hall, a manor dating to the 16th century. Although the hall itself was demolished in the mid-20th century, remnants such as garden buildings and the walled kitchen garden lodge, known locally as “Queen Mary’s Chapel,” still hint at the estate’s rich past. The grounds were notably landscaped in the 18th century in the naturalistic style popularized by Capability Brown, creating the gently rolling hills and informal vistas visitors enjoy today.Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The park is renowned for its resident herd of fallow deer, which roam freely and can be fed by visitors with approved food available for purchase at the visitor centre. Birdlife is abundant, with herons, mallards, and other waterfowl frequenting the lakes. The mix of habitats supports diverse flora and fauna, making it a favored spot for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The landscape’s variety—from tranquil lakes to wildflower meadows and dense woodlands—provides a peaceful retreat from urban life.Activities for All Ages
Weald Country Park offers a wide range of recreational options. The Stick Man play trail, inspired by Julia Donaldson’s beloved book, invites children to engage in imaginative play while exploring the park’s natural features. Well-maintained cycling paths circle the woodlands and meadows, suitable for both leisurely rides and more energetic exercise. Walking trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to casual strollers and more avid hikers alike. Fishing is permitted in designated lakes with the appropriate permits, adding another dimension to outdoor activities.Visitor Facilities and Amenities
The park is equipped with several car parks, including disabled parking, with a pay-and-display system in place. The visitor centre near the main car park houses a café serving hot and cold refreshments, a shop selling gifts, outdoor toys, and animal food, and clean toilet facilities including baby-changing rooms. Picnic areas with benches are scattered throughout the park, some near shaded grassy spots. Dog owners will find taps and dog bowls positioned around the park, and dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control to protect wildlife.Scenic Highlights and Points of Interest
For panoramic views, visitors can head to the Lincolns Lane car park and walk along the hill’s brow. The Belvedere car park leads to the Belvedere mound, where the remains of an 18th-century folly with a dual staircase offer a picturesque picnic spot. The park’s varied terrain, from gentle hills to flat meadows, makes it ideal for rolling down grassy slopes or simply relaxing while soaking in the natural surroundings.Community and Conservation
The park benefits from a dedicated volunteer group involved in conservation efforts such as habitat creation and maintenance projects. These activities help preserve the park’s ecological health and enhance visitor experience. Throughout the year, Weald Country Park hosts events and educational programs that connect people with nature and local heritage, reinforcing its role as a cherished community resource.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laindon War Memorial
12.3 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Falklands Island Monument
16.7 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
The Gypsy Stone
17.8 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
18.6 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.
Danbury Country Park
22.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Danbury Country Park in Essex, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families seeking adventure.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
23.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
National Trust - Sutton House and Breaker's Yard
23.3 km
Discover the enchanting Sutton House and Breaker's Yard, a historical jewel in London offering a glimpse into Tudor life and vibrant cultural events.
Hackney Museum
23.8 km
Explore Hackney Museum, a vibrant cultural destination showcasing Hackney's rich history and diverse community through engaging exhibits and events.
National Trust - Rayleigh Mount
23.8 km
Explore the historic Rayleigh Mount Castle in Essex, offering stunning views, rich heritage, and a perfect day out amidst beautiful landscapes.
Cutty Sark
23.9 km
Step aboard the world's fastest tea clipper, suspended in time above Greenwich's Thames, where echoes of ocean races and salty decks invite maritime dreams.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
23.9 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Anchor Iron Wharf
23.9 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Rayleigh Windmill
23.9 km
Experience the enchanting history and scenic beauty at Rayleigh Windmill, a heritage gem perfect for families and history buffs alike.
Rye House Gatehouse
24.1 km
Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
Trafalgar Tavern
24.2 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
1.9 km
A vibrant family farm and fun park in Brentwood, blending hands-on animal encounters with thrilling rides and indoor play for all ages.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
2.6 km
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
Warley Place Nature Reserve
3.4 km
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
UnHenged
4.9 km
Explore Romford’s unique concrete Stonehenge replica, blending prehistoric inspiration with modern art in a tranquil meadow setting.
Thorndon Country Park
4.9 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
Bedfords Park
5.2 km
Explore 215 acres of historic parkland with red deer, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views over East London and Kent.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
5.4 km
Explore the vast underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath a modest Essex bungalow, revealing Britain's secret nuclear defense history.
Mountnessing Windmill
7.3 km
Historic 1807 post mill in Essex, fully restored and working, offering heritage milling and scenic village charm.
Thorndon Country Park South
7.6 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
Havering Museum Ltd
7.8 km
Discover the rich local history of Havering in the charming former Romford Brewery, where community heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
Barnards Miniature Railway
9.1 km
A charming 7¼ inch gauge miniature railway on a working farm near Brentwood, perfect for families and rail enthusiasts on select days from spring to winter.
Hainault Forest
9.2 km
Explore ancient woodlands, family-friendly farms, and scenic trails at Hainault Forest Country Park—London’s peaceful natural escape.
Hill Hall
9.5 km
Explore Hill Hall, Essex’s exquisite Elizabethan mansion blending Renaissance art, French-inspired architecture, and Tudor intellectual legacy.
Ingatestone Hall
9.6 km
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
Cater Museum
10.6 km
Discover Billericay’s heritage at the quaint Cater Museum, where local history comes alive in a charming High Street setting.
Essential places to dine
Alec's Restaurant
3.4 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Dukes Head Billericay
10.4 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
The Magic Mushroom
12.7 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
Bartellas Restaurant
12.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Hoop at Stock
13.3 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
The Cart Shed Restaurant
14.1 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
17.2 km
A charming gastro-pub overlooking Matching Green’s cricket pitch, blending traditional English village charm with modern dining comfort.
The New London
18.2 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
18.6 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Acanteen
18.8 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
18.9 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Cosy Club
19.0 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
19.0 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Russells Restaurant
19.3 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
20.3 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
French Quarter
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
2.6 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
2.7 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Blush Boutique Essex
13.4 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
13.5 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Unique Store
19.0 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Riverside Retail Park
19.5 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
Triangle Store
22.7 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
The Factory Shops
23.9 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Palace Exchange Shopping Centre
24.1 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Palace Exchange Shopping Centre, Enfield, with diverse shops, cafes, and exciting events.
Palace Gardens Shopping Centre
24.2 km
Explore the vibrant Palace Gardens Shopping Centre in Enfield for a unique shopping and dining experience, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Painted hall gift shop
24.4 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
The Trading Centre
24.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques at The Trading Centre in Hoddesdon, where every item has a story waiting to be discovered.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
24.5 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Broadway Market
24.5 km
A lively Victorian street market in East London offering global street food, unique crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere every weekend.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Merchant Brentwood
2.4 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
Top Oak Restaurant & Pub Essex Venue Hire Stapleford Abbotts
5.7 km
A charming Essex country pub blending rustic ambiance with contemporary comfort and classic British cuisine.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
6.9 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fête Lounge
7.6 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
Vertigo
7.6 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
8.5 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
Cristi's Bar
10.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Harry's Bar
10.6 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
The Bar People
12.5 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
The Bear Inn - Stock
13.1 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Fox and Goose
13.1 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
13.9 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
Fox & Hounds
17.1 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Orange Tree
18.2 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Woolpack
18.7 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
13.5 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Faces NightClub
14.5 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
The Loft Basildon
14.6 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Club Tantalize
18.7 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
18.8 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
18.9 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
20.1 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
CQ LOUNGE
20.9 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
LA Lounge
21.6 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
22.5 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
22.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Oliver's Jazz Bar
24.7 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
E1
25.9 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
25.9 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Bunker
26.0 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
