Bedfords Park: Historic Green Haven with Red Deer and Panoramic Views
Explore 215 acres of historic parkland with red deer, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views over East London and Kent.
Bedfords Park is a 215-acre historic country park and Local Nature Reserve located in Havering-atte-Bower near Romford. Managed by the London Borough of Havering and the Essex Wildlife Trust, it features mature woodlands, wildflower meadows, ponds, and a captive herd of red deer. The park offers panoramic views over East London and Kent, an Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre with refreshments, and a variety of walking routes through diverse habitats.
A brief summary to Bedfords Park
- Broxhill Rd, Romford, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH, GB
- +441708434343
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre for refreshments, educational exhibits, and panoramic views.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park hosts woodpeckers, nuthatches, and hobby falcons.
- Dogs must be kept on leads and are not allowed inside the Visitor Centre or at certain events.
- Explore varied walking routes from landscaped parkland to wildflower meadows for diverse nature experiences.
- Plan visits in spring or summer to enjoy wildflower blooms and abundant butterfly activity.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the London Buses service 375 from Romford Station towards Harold Hill, alighting near Broxhill Road. The journey typically takes 25–35 minutes. From the bus stop, expect a 15-minute walk on uneven terrain to the Visitor Centre. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London bus fare.
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Car
Driving from central Romford, Bedfords Park is accessible via Broxhill Road with free parking available on site. Journey time is around 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking is free but limited during peak times, and some areas have uneven surfaces.
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Train and Walk
From Romford railway station, take a taxi or bus to Broxhill Road, approximately 4 miles away. Alternatively, Harold Wood station is about 4 miles from the park. Walking from these stations to the park involves a 45–60 minute walk over mixed terrain, which may be challenging for some visitors.
Bedfords Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bedfords Park
Legacy of a Historic Estate and Natural Sanctuary
Bedfords Park, spanning 215 acres, is a treasured green space nestled between Collier Row and Harold Hill in the London Borough of Havering. Originally a privately owned estate, the park was opened to the public in 1934. Though the original mansion house was demolished in 1958 due to deterioration and vandalism, its legacy endures through the preserved walled garden walls and the modern Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre built on the mansion’s site in 2003. The park’s landscape retains features from the 18th century, including an avenue of mature Horse Chestnut trees along the former public lane route.Diverse Habitats and Wildlife Highlights
The park is a designated Local Nature Reserve and a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation, boasting a rich mosaic of habitats. Visitors encounter mature deciduous woodlands, species-rich wildflower meadows, ponds, streams, marshy areas, and a large artificial fishing lake. A notable attraction is the captive herd of red deer, a rare sight near London, which roam the park’s gently rolling terrain. Birdlife flourishes here, including all three species of woodpecker, nuthatch, and hobby, while the meadows and ponds support diverse invertebrates such as butterflies and dragonflies.Visitor Centre and Amenities
The Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre offers a warm welcome with panoramic views across East London and into Kent. It houses a gift shop featuring nature-themed books, binoculars, and bird food, alongside light refreshments and snacks. The centre also provides educational activities for schools and families, fostering a connection with the park’s natural heritage. Picnic areas and seating spots are scattered throughout the park, making it ideal for leisurely visits. Dogs are welcome on leads in most areas, though not inside the centre or at certain events.Scenic Walks and Panoramic Vistas
Bedfords Park’s topography includes a south-facing slope rising to 110 meters above sea level, offering expansive views over the River Thames and the Kent countryside beyond. Walking routes vary from landscaped parkland in the upper sections to wildlife-focused hay meadows and woodland in the lower areas. The park’s layout invites exploration of its varied environments, from tranquil ponds to vibrant wildflower meadows, making it a favored spot for birdwatching, photography, and nature appreciation.Conservation and Community Engagement
Managed by Havering Council in partnership with the Essex Wildlife Trust, Bedfords Park has earned Green Flag status since 2007, reflecting its quality and conservation efforts. The Friends of Bedfords Park group formed in 2004 to support the park’s upkeep and community events. The park’s management balances public access with habitat preservation, maintaining a haven for wildlife while providing a peaceful retreat for visitors.Seasonal Attractions and Visitor Experience
Throughout the year, Bedfords Park offers changing seasonal highlights: spring brings wildflowers like ragged robin and cuckoo flower; summer showcases butterflies and dragonflies; winter hosts large corvid roosts near the deer pen. The park’s varied environments provide year-round opportunities for mindfulness, nature escapes, and family outings. Its proximity to London combined with its rural character makes it a unique green refuge within the city’s greenbelt.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gypsy Stone
12.8 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Laindon War Memorial
16.3 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Falklands Island Monument
17.0 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Hackney Museum
18.7 km
Explore Hackney Museum, a vibrant cultural destination showcasing Hackney's rich history and diverse community through engaging exhibits and events.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
18.9 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Cutty Sark
19.1 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.
Anchor Iron Wharf
19.1 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
19.4 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
19.4 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.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
19.5 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Downhills Park
19.6 km
Explore Downhills Park, a tranquil oasis in London offering picturesque gardens, expansive green spaces, and enjoyable recreational activities for all.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
19.7 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Painted Hall
19.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Painted Hall in Greenwich, a Baroque masterpiece showcasing stunning frescoes and rich British naval history, perfect for art lovers.
Queen's House
19.7 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Queen's House, a must-see museum and art gallery in Greenwich, London.
Cutty Sark Gardens
19.7 km
Explore Cutty Sark Gardens in London for a peaceful retreat filled with stunning river views and rich maritime history, a perfect escape from the city hustle.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
3.6 km
A vibrant family farm and fun park in Brentwood, blending hands-on animal encounters with thrilling rides and indoor play for all ages.
Havering Museum Ltd
3.6 km
Discover the rich local history of Havering in the charming former Romford Brewery, where community heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
UnHenged
4.2 km
Explore Romford’s unique concrete Stonehenge replica, blending prehistoric inspiration with modern art in a tranquil meadow setting.
Hainault Forest
4.5 km
Explore ancient woodlands, family-friendly farms, and scenic trails at Hainault Forest Country Park—London’s peaceful natural escape.
Weald Country Park
5.2 km
Explore 520 acres of historic Essex parkland with deer, lakes, play trails, and scenic walking and cycling routes for all ages.
Warley Place Nature Reserve
6.5 km
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
Powerleague Fairlop
6.5 km
Experience premier 5-a-side football year-round on floodlit 3G pitches at Powerleague Fairlop, Ilford’s top sports hub with family-friendly facilities.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
7.8 km
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
Hill Hall
7.8 km
Explore Hill Hall, Essex’s exquisite Elizabethan mansion blending Renaissance art, French-inspired architecture, and Tudor intellectual legacy.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
8.3 km
Explore the vast underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath a modest Essex bungalow, revealing Britain's secret nuclear defense history.
Thorndon Country Park
8.9 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
National Trust - Rainham Hall
10.1 km
Explore Rainham Hall, a stunning 1729 Georgian merchant’s house blending history, community gardens, and immersive exhibitions on London’s eastern edge.
Belhus Woods Country Park
10.7 km
Explore ancient woodlands, tranquil lakes, and historic landscapes in this accessible South Essex country park rich with wildlife and heritage.
Thorndon Country Park South
11.4 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
Epping Forest
11.5 km
Explore ancient woodlands, rich wildlife, and historic landmarks in London’s sprawling natural sanctuary, Epping Forest.
Essential places to dine
Alec's Restaurant
6.7 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
The Cart Shed Restaurant
13.2 km
A rustic yet refined British dining experience in the tranquil village of Thornwood near Epping, blending seasonal local produce with countryside charm.
Dukes Head Billericay
15.2 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
The Magic Mushroom
17.4 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
Bartellas Restaurant
17.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Billingsgate Market
18.3 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
Hackney Church Brew Co.
18.3 km
A vibrant brewery and taproom in Hackney Central blending craft beers, open-flame cooking, and a welcoming community spirit.
Hoop at Stock
18.5 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
The Chequers Matching Green
18.8 km
A charming gastro-pub overlooking Matching Green’s cricket pitch, blending traditional English village charm with modern dining comfort.
Behind Restaurant
19.0 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Sefa Restaurant
19.1 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Midpoint Restaurant
19.1 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Da Terra Restaurant
19.3 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Goddards at Greenwich
19.9 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
19.9 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
French Quarter
7.5 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
7.5 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
7.6 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Blush Boutique Essex
11.5 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
12.2 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Unique Store
14.6 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Triangle Store
17.6 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
The Harvey Centre
19.2 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at The Harvey Centre, featuring diverse stores and a delicious food court in the heart of Harlow.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
19.3 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Broadway Market
19.4 km
A lively Victorian street market in East London offering global street food, unique crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere every weekend.
Hackney Flea Market
19.4 km
Discover rare vintage treasures and salvaged antiques in a lively, community-focused market nestled in Stoke Newington’s historic Abney Hall.
Palace Exchange Shopping Centre
19.6 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Palace Exchange Shopping Centre, Enfield, with diverse shops, cafes, and exciting events.
Painted hall gift shop
19.6 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Bluewater Shopping Centre
19.7 km
Explore Bluewater Shopping Centre, a premier shopping destination with over 300 stores, diverse dining options, and entertainment for the whole family.
Palace Gardens Shopping Centre
19.7 km
Explore the vibrant Palace Gardens Shopping Centre in Enfield for a unique shopping and dining experience, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Top Oak Restaurant & Pub Essex Venue Hire Stapleford Abbotts
2.3 km
A charming Essex country pub blending rustic ambiance with contemporary comfort and classic British cuisine.
Vertigo
5.6 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
Fête Lounge
7.0 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
The Merchant Brentwood
7.3 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
The Bar People
9.5 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
12.0 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
12.7 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
Cristi's Bar
15.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Harry's Bar
15.7 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Burnt Faith Brandy House
16.1 km
Discover London's first dedicated brandy distillery and bar, blending innovative spirits with bold BBQ in a vibrant East London setting.
The Fox and Goose
17.5 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
All Bar One Greenwich
17.7 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
17.8 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Td 338 Bar
18.2 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
18.2 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Faces NightClub
9.3 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
11.6 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
CQ LOUNGE
16.3 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
LA Lounge
16.8 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
17.7 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
17.8 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Air & Breathe Nightclub
18.2 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
The Loft Basildon
18.7 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
18.8 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
20.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
Basing House - Shoreditch
20.8 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
E1
20.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Trafik
21.0 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Hoxton Pony
21.1 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
The Bunker
21.2 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
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
