Hainault Forest Country Park: A Woodland Retreat on London's Edge
Explore ancient woodlands, family-friendly farms, and scenic trails at Hainault Forest Country Park—London’s peaceful natural escape.
Hainault Forest Country Park is a vast and historic green space on the outskirts of London, offering tranquil woodlands, a large boating lake, family-friendly activities including a petting farm and adventure playground, and an interactive visitor centre. Spanning nearly 300 acres, it is a protected nature reserve with diverse habitats, walking trails, and artisan workshops, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike.
A brief summary to Hainault Forest
- Hainault Forest Country Park, IG7 4QN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-9:30 pm
Local tips
- Download the RingGo app before visiting to easily pay for parking at the main car parks.
- Wear sturdy footwear, especially after rain, as some forest paths can become muddy.
- Visit the Visitor Centre for maps, trail leaflets, and information about seasonal wildlife sightings.
- Check out the artisan workshops and craft shops near the Visitor Centre for unique local products.
- Plan a family day including a visit to Foxburrows Farm and the adventure playground for children.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take London Bus Route 362 or 462 from nearby Ilford or Chigwell to stops near Romford Road; from there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the Visitor Centre. Buses run approximately every 20-30 minutes. A standard London bus fare applies, around £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Car
Driving from central London takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Paid parking is available at the main car parks on Fox Burrow Road with charges up to £5.50 for all-day parking, payable via the RingGo app. Disabled parking spaces are available and free with a blue badge.
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Train and Walk
From London Liverpool Street, take the TfL Rail or Greater Anglia service to Chigwell or Grange Hill stations. From either station, it’s a 30-40 minute walk through residential areas and green spaces to the park entrances. This route is suitable for those who enjoy a longer walk and wish to avoid parking fees.
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Cycling
Hainault Forest is accessible by bike via local cycle routes from Redbridge and surrounding areas. Cycle parking is available near the Visitor Centre. Paths within the park include surfaced multi-user trails suitable for cyclists, though some sections may be uneven or muddy after rain.
Hainault Forest 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 Hainault Forest
A Storied Woodland on the Edge of London
Hainault Forest Country Park preserves a fragment of the ancient Hainault Forest, once sprawling across Essex and Greater London. Though much of the original forest was lost after the mid-19th century, the remaining 294 acres serve as a vital green lung and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The park is located mainly within the London Borough of Redbridge and extends into Essex, offering a rich mix of woodland, grassland, and wetland habitats. This historic forest played a role in inspiring early environmental conservation efforts, reflecting its longstanding cultural and ecological importance.Immersive Nature and Wildlife Experiences
Visitors to Hainault Forest can explore nine waymarked trails that wind through stately oak and hornbeam trees, past wildflower meadows and a large lake. The lake invites boating in warmer months, providing close encounters with waterfowl and aquatic life. Birdwatchers delight in over 150 recorded species, including rare visitors like the nightingale and turtle dove. Seasonal changes bring vibrant bluebell carpets in spring and fiery foliage in autumn, while fungi and butterflies add to the forest’s natural tapestry.Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities
The park is designed with families in mind, featuring Foxburrows Farm where children can meet rare breed farm animals such as alpacas, goats, and pigs. The outdoor adventure playground, crafted from natural wood and inspired by the forest’s heritage, offers climbing frames, slides, and towers perfect for all ages. The 1856 Café and Visitor Centre provide refreshments, information, and interactive exhibits that educate visitors about the forest’s history, wildlife, and conservation.Artisan Workshops and Community Engagement
Hainault Forest supports local creativity through workshops in glass blowing, carpentry, and other crafts, housed in restored Victorian barns. These spaces foster community involvement and celebrate traditional skills. The Woodland Trust, London Borough of Redbridge, and Vision RCL collaborate to maintain the park, organize events, and offer volunteering opportunities, ensuring the forest remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all.Facilities and Accessibility
The park features multiple car parks with cashless payment systems, including disabled parking spaces. Well-maintained surfaced paths accommodate walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, though some trails may be muddy in wet weather. Accessible toilets, including changing places facilities, are available near the Visitor Centre and café. The park encourages responsible enjoyment with no barbecues allowed and promotes the use of the what3words system for easy navigation.A Year-Round Destination for Relaxation and Discovery
Open daily from early morning until dusk, Hainault Forest Country Park offers a peaceful escape from urban life in any season. Whether you seek a mindful woodland walk, a fun family day out, or an opportunity to connect with nature and local heritage, the park’s diverse landscapes and activities provide something for everyone. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural history, and community spirit makes it a treasured green space on London’s doorstep.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gypsy Stone
8.8 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
16.5 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
16.6 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.
Barnards Miniature Railway
16.7 km
Discover the magic of model trains at Barnards Miniature Railway, a charming attraction in Brentwood offering fun for all ages amidst beautiful landscapes.
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
17.0 km
Explore the rich history of transportation at Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, featuring vintage vehicles and fascinating memorabilia in Enfield.
Cutty Sark
17.5 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
17.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Arnold Circus
17.8 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
Shadwell Basin
17.8 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
Shoreditch Church
17.8 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Trafalgar Tavern
17.8 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
17.8 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Brick Ln
17.8 km
East London's ever-evolving cultural heart, where centuries of immigration, street art, and multicultural heritage converge on a single vibrant street.
Shoreditch Park
17.8 km
Experience the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Shoreditch Park, an urban oasis in the heart of London.
Execution Dock
17.9 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Powerleague Fairlop
3.2 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.
Bedfords Park
4.5 km
Explore 215 acres of historic parkland with red deer, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views over East London and Kent.
UnHenged
5.7 km
Explore Romford’s unique concrete Stonehenge replica, blending prehistoric inspiration with modern art in a tranquil meadow setting.
Havering Museum Ltd
5.8 km
Discover the rich local history of Havering in the charming former Romford Brewery, where community heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
Hill Hall
6.1 km
Explore Hill Hall, Essex’s exquisite Elizabethan mansion blending Renaissance art, French-inspired architecture, and Tudor intellectual legacy.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
7.3 km
A vibrant family farm and fun park in Brentwood, blending hands-on animal encounters with thrilling rides and indoor play for all ages.
Epping Forest
7.4 km
Explore ancient woodlands, rich wildlife, and historic landmarks in London’s sprawling natural sanctuary, Epping Forest.
Weald Country Park
9.2 km
Explore 520 acres of historic Essex parkland with deer, lakes, play trails, and scenic walking and cycling routes for all ages.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
10.3 km
Explore the vast underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath a modest Essex bungalow, revealing Britain's secret nuclear defense history.
Leytonstone
10.3 km
A vibrant transport hub blending modernist architecture and iconic Hitchcock mosaics in East London’s Leytonstone.
Warley Place Nature Reserve
10.9 km
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
River Lee Navigation
11.3 km
A historic 28-mile canalised river blending industrial heritage, urban vibrancy, and tranquil green spaces from Hertford to the Thames.
Epping Forest District Museum
11.6 km
Discover centuries of local history and culture in a family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits and a peaceful garden in Waltham Abbey.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
11.7 km
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
National Trust - Rainham Hall
12.2 km
Explore Rainham Hall, a stunning 1729 Georgian merchant’s house blending history, community gardens, and immersive exhibitions on London’s eastern edge.
Essential places to dine
Alec's Restaurant
9.5 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
11.1 km
A rustic yet refined British dining experience in the tranquil village of Thornwood near Epping, blending seasonal local produce with countryside charm.
Behind Restaurant
15.9 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Billingsgate Market
16.2 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
Da Terra Restaurant
16.4 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Brawn
17.3 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Midpoint Restaurant
17.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
17.6 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Nomadic community
17.6 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Clove Club
17.9 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
17.9 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Lyle's
18.0 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Goddards at Greenwich
18.3 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
18.3 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
18.3 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blush Boutique Essex
8.8 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
9.9 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
French Quarter
11.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
11.7 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
11.8 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Unique Store
13.9 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
14.3 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
Nook Shop
16.1 km
A chic, eco-conscious lifestyle boutique offering curated gifts and design treasures in the heart of Stoke Newington.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
16.2 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Broadway Market
16.3 km
A lively Victorian street market in East London offering global street food, unique crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere every weekend.
The Harvey Centre
16.7 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at The Harvey Centre, featuring diverse stores and a delicious food court in the heart of Harlow.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
17.7 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
Luna & Curious
17.8 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
17.8 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Backyard Market
17.9 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Top Oak Restaurant & Pub Essex Venue Hire Stapleford Abbotts
3.6 km
A charming Essex country pub blending rustic ambiance with contemporary comfort and classic British cuisine.
The Bar People
6.0 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
Vertigo
9.1 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
10.8 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
The Merchant Brentwood
11.5 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
Burnt Faith Brandy House
12.2 km
Discover London's first dedicated brandy distillery and bar, blending innovative spirits with bold BBQ in a vibrant East London setting.
Behind This Wall
15.2 km
Discover Hackney’s cozy basement bar with bespoke cocktails, vintage sounds, and an intimate atmosphere that invites you to savor every sip.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
15.2 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
15.6 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
All Bar One Greenwich
15.9 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
15.9 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
16.2 km
Discover a unique blend of cocktail culture and museum curiosities at The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour in London.
The Cauldron London
16.3 km
Step into a wizard’s world at The Cauldron London, where you craft magical cocktails with wands and cauldrons in an immersive fantasy setting.
Satan's Whiskers
16.5 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Td 338 Bar
16.5 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Faces NightClub
6.5 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
8.9 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
LA Lounge
15.1 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
15.3 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
American Express Invites Lounge
15.9 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
15.9 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Basing House - Shoreditch
17.7 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Trafik
18.0 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Hoxton Pony
18.1 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
E1
18.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
XOYO LONDON
18.4 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
18.4 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
London Best Night Clubs
19.5 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Bunker
19.5 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Steel Yard
19.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- 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
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly