Panshanger Park: Hertfordshire’s Vast Countryside Sanctuary
Explore 400 hectares of historic Hertfordshire countryside with ancient oaks, lakes, and abundant wildlife at Panshanger Park.
Panshanger Park spans over 400 hectares of Hertfordshire countryside, offering expansive woodlands, lakes, and wildlife habitats. Known for its historic landscape design and natural beauty, it features ancient oaks, peaceful trails, and rich biodiversity, making it ideal for walking, birdwatching, and nature exploration. The park is open daily with a modest parking fee and provides a tranquil escape close to Hertford and Welwyn Garden City.
A brief summary to Panshanger Park
- Thieves Ln, Hertford, SG14 2WN, GB
- +441992512758
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Parking at Thieves Lane costs £2.50 daily (8:30 am–5:30 pm) and is payable by card via the RingGo app.
- Stick to designated paths to protect sensitive wildlife habitats and respect private land areas.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and keep an eye out for the park’s famous dragonflies and damselflies.
- Dogs are welcome but must be controlled; use the designated dog dip area for water access.
- Join community events like the Welwyn 10k or Nature Explorers group to engage more deeply with the park.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Hertford or Welwyn Garden City takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Parking is available at Thieves Lane Car Park for £2.50 daily (8:30 am–5:30 pm), payable by card via the RingGo app. Note that parking spaces are limited and can fill on busy days.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Hertford town center to stops near Panshanger Park, with a journey time of around 20–30 minutes. Check current timetables as frequency varies, and some routes may require a short walk to the park entrance.
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Cycling
Cycling is a popular way to reach Panshanger Park, with safe routes from Hertford and Welwyn Garden City via National Cycle Network Route 61. The terrain is mostly flat, suitable for casual cyclists.
Panshanger 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 Panshanger Park
A Landscape Rooted in History and Natural Grandeur
Panshanger Park is a sprawling 400-hectare estate nestled between Hertford and Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire. Once part of a grand country estate, the park retains the legacy of Humphry Repton, the renowned 18th-century landscape designer, whose vision shaped much of the park’s rolling meadows, woodlands, and water features. Among its most notable natural treasures is the Great Oak, a majestic tree estimated to be over 400 years old, standing as a living monument to the park’s deep historical roots.Rich Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts
The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, hosting a remarkable variety of species. It is especially celebrated for its dragonflies and damselflies, with 18 species recorded, alongside numerous breeding and wintering birds. Conservation initiatives have been active here, including efforts to protect rare wetland plants and maintain habitats that support diverse flora and fauna. These projects underscore Panshanger’s role not just as a recreational space but as a vital ecological reserve.Visitor Experience and Recreational Opportunities
Visitors to Panshanger Park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The extensive network of trails caters to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, with permissive bridleways and cycle paths weaving through the landscape. The park’s lakes and river offer scenic spots for relaxation, though swimming and casual fishing are not permitted without membership in the local angling club. Dog walking is popular here, with designated dog dip areas and clear guidelines to ensure safety and cleanliness.Facilities, Access, and Practical Information
The main access point is via Thieves Lane, where a car park operates daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm with a £2.50 charge payable by card through a mobile app system. Outside these hours, parking is free. The park is open 24 hours a day for entry, but visitors are encouraged to respect the private ownership and adhere to park rules, including staying on designated paths and supervising children. Amenities include dog bins, seating areas, and information boards, but there are no food or drink outlets within the park itself.Community Engagement and Events
Panshanger Park is more than a natural retreat; it is a community hub. It hosts events such as the annual Welwyn 10k race and seasonal activities like carol singing. The park also supports educational initiatives, including the Nature Explorers group for young adventurers and volunteer conservation projects. These programs foster a strong connection between visitors and the environment, promoting stewardship and appreciation of the park’s unique heritage.Balancing Preservation with Public Enjoyment
As a privately owned space with permissive access, Panshanger Park balances conservation priorities with public use. Visitors are reminded to respect wildlife habitats, avoid prohibited activities like camping and drone flying, and maintain the park’s cleanliness. This stewardship ensures that Panshanger remains a cherished landscape for future generations to explore and enjoy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
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River Lee Navigation
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Middlesex University London
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Leytonstone
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Royal Free Hospital
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Unmissable attractions to see
Willowmead
1.2 km
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Hertford Heath Nature Reserve
5.1 km
Explore the peaceful heathland and woodland trails of Hertford Heath Nature Reserve, a vibrant haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
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.
Enchanted England Tours
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Hatfield House, Park and Gardens
7.9 km
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Lemsford Springs
8.2 km
A tranquil 4-hectare wetland reserve near Welwyn Garden City, rich in birdlife and spring-fed habitats for year-round wildlife viewing.
Rye House Gatehouse
8.5 km
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The Galleria
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Hatfield’s covered outlet hub with 80+ stores, dining, cinema and family play, all under one roof just off the A1(M).
Knebworth House
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Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
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Westgate Shopping Centre (Stevenage)
13.4 km
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Capel Manor Gardens
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The Harvey Centre
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Epping Forest District Museum
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Essential places to dine
ILVINO RESTAURANT
2.0 km
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The Woolpack
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The Old Barge
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Discover The Old Barge: A charming English pub offering delicious cuisine, live music, and scenic views along the waterways.
Dinnio Restaurant
2.2 km
A vibrant Mediterranean dining experience blending Italian and Turkish flavors in the heart of Hertford’s historic Fore Street.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen & Bar - Hertford
2.4 km
Savor sustainably sourced modern British cuisine in a warm, spacious Hertford bistro with attentive service and seasonal menus.
Veyso’s Brasserie
2.4 km
Award-winning Turkish cuisine and glamorous dining in the heart of Hertford, blending tradition with contemporary flair.
Cowper Arms Hertford
2.4 km
A charming Hertford gastropub blending traditional British fare with modern style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Goat
4.7 km
Experience authentic British cuisine and warm hospitality at The Goat in Hertford Heath - the perfect pub for every traveler.
College Arms
5.0 km
Traditional charm meets contemporary comfort at College Arms, a cozy gastropub nestled in Hertford Heath’s tranquil countryside.
Cast Iron Grill
6.0 km
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Gables Restaurant - Home
7.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean cuisine and warm hospitality in the charming village setting of Hertford’s Gables Restaurant.
Roy's Restaurant
8.2 km
A warm, modern British restaurant in Welwyn offering diverse dishes, attentive service, and a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
The Waggoners
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Three Horseshoes
8.6 km
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Cock o’ the North
8.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Retail Therapy
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Magpie Amore
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The Women's Society Boutique
2.0 km
Hertford’s award-winning independent designer boutique, offering curated womenswear, accessories and personal styling in a charming historic setting.
Frankie and Olive
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Discover stylish, sustainable women's clothing and unique gifts at Frankie and Olive, Hertford’s ethical boutique gem.
Rossi's Attic
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Discover unique vintage treasures and charming collectibles at Rossi's Attic, Hertford’s beloved boutique gift and antique shop.
Gingerlillie Boutique - Women's Clothing in Hertford
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Discover curated designer women's fashion and accessories with personalized service in the heart of Hertford’s historic Market Place.
Ruby Room
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Eye Mind Heart
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Mint of Hertford
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Spry Scents
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The Howard Centre
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Miss Boutique
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Im Fine Wellbeing - St. Albans
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The Dressing Room
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Christopher Place Shopping Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The White Horse Hertford
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The Quiet Man
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The Snug Bar Hertford
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Cinnabar
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Jungle Bar
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The Beehive
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Hertford Club
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The Forum Hertfordshire
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Havana
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Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
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Mia Musica
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The Bear Club
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Canvas Bar & Nightclub
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Popworld Watford
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VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
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Faces NightClub
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Monster Queen
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Egg London Nightclub
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Club Stable
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Lockside
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
