Queen's Wood: Ancient Woodland Sanctuary in London
Explore Queen's Wood, a serene ancient woodland in London teeming with rich wildlife, historic trees, and peaceful trails just minutes from the city.
Queen's Wood is a 21-hectare ancient woodland in London’s Borough of Haringey, renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. Dating back at least to 1600 and possibly prehistoric times, it features oak and hornbeam trees, diverse flora including native bluebells and wood anemones, and abundant wildlife such as woodpeckers and rare beetles. The reserve offers peaceful walking paths, a café, and a newly created wildlife pond, making it a cherished green escape near central London.
A brief summary to Queen's Wood
- Queen's Wood Rd, London, N6 6UU, GB
- 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 the café for organic refreshments and enjoy the peaceful garden setting.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the natural trails and spotting diverse wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially to spot woodpeckers and song thrushes.
- Explore the newly created wildlife pond, a habitat for aquatic plants and insects.
- Check accessibility details if visiting with mobility aids; paths are wide but not fully accessible.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Northern Line to Highgate Station, then walk approximately 15 minutes along Queen's Wood Road to reach the woodland entrance. The tube service runs frequently, with fares ranging from £2.50 to £4.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 210 and 263 serve stops near Queen's Wood, with a short walk of about 10 minutes to the entrance. Buses run every 10-20 minutes during the day, and a single fare costs around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Walking
From Highgate village, a pleasant 20-minute walk through residential streets leads to Queen's Wood. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, though some paths may be uneven.
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Car
Parking near Queen's Wood is limited and mainly on-street with resident restrictions. Visitors should be aware of local parking regulations and may need to pay for parking. Driving times vary depending on traffic, typically 20-40 minutes from central London.
Queen's Wood 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 Queen's Wood
Origins and Historical Significance
Queen’s Wood is a rare surviving fragment of ancient woodland in London, spanning 21 hectares (52 acres) in the Borough of Haringey. It was once part of the vast Forest of Middlesex, a wildwood that covered much of London and surrounding counties thousands of years ago. The wood’s history is deeply rooted, with mentions in the Domesday Book over 900 years ago and its renaming in 1898 in honor of Queen Victoria. Purchased by Hornsey Urban District Council and opened to the public by Princess Helena, it has been protected as a Local Nature Reserve since 1990.Ecological Richness and Flora
The woodland is dominated by oak and hornbeam trees, with occasional beech, cherry, field maple, hazel, holly, hawthorn, mountain ash, and birch species. A notable presence is the scarce Wild Service Tree, an indicator of the wood’s ancient origins. The ground flora is exceptionally diverse for an urban setting, including wood anemone, native bluebells, goldilocks buttercup, wood sorrel, yellow pimpernel, and St John's wort. Surveys have recorded dozens of herbaceous plants and grasses, contributing to a layered and vibrant ecosystem.Wildlife and Conservation Efforts
Queen’s Wood supports a wide range of wildlife, including breeding pairs of at least 27 bird species such as the endangered song thrush and three types of woodpeckers. Over 100 spider species have been documented, alongside a nationally rare jewel beetle. A disused paddling pool has been transformed into a wildlife pond, enhancing aquatic habitats with native plants. The Friends of Queen’s Wood volunteer group actively participates in conservation, helping maintain the wood’s natural character and biodiversity.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors to Queen’s Wood enjoy tranquil walking trails through ancient trees and rich undergrowth, providing a peaceful escape from city life. The paths are wide enough for wheelchair access, though not fully accessible throughout. A small adventure playground and a café with an organic garden offer family-friendly amenities. The wood’s natural beauty and quiet atmosphere make it ideal for birdwatching, nature walks, and photography.Environmental Importance and Urban Context
Despite its proximity to central London, Queen’s Wood remains a vital green space and a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation. It acts as a refuge for diverse flora and fauna, preserving a direct link to Britain’s original wildwood. The wood also serves as the source of the Moselle stream, which flows through North London. Its preservation contributes to urban biodiversity and offers residents and visitors a unique connection to natural heritage within a bustling metropolis.Community and Cultural Connections
Queen’s Wood is more than a natural reserve; it is a community asset cherished by locals and nature lovers. The Friends of Queen’s Wood group fosters stewardship and educational activities, encouraging public engagement with the woodland’s history and ecology. The wood’s legacy as an ancient forest and its ongoing protection reflect London’s commitment to conserving green spaces for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hawley Street Art
4.3 km
Discover Camden’s vibrant Hawley Street Art, a dynamic outdoor gallery celebrating creativity, culture, and iconic urban murals.
Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
4.5 km
Historic iron footbridge offering scenic canal views and vibrant access to Camden’s lively markets and cultural heart.
Caithness House
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant residential life of London at Caithness House, a modern flat complex perfect for tourists seeking comfort and convenience.
St. John's Wood
5.5 km
Explore St. John's Wood, a charming London neighborhood known for its historic landmarks, vibrant atmosphere, and rich cultural experiences.
Abbey Rd.
5.5 km
Discover Abbey Road, the iconic street in London where music history was made and the Beatles immortalized their legacy.
Middlesex University London
5.8 km
Discover Middlesex University London, where education meets culture in a vibrant campus setting, just a stone's throw from the heart of the city.
5 Abbey Rd.
5.9 km
World’s oldest purpose-built recording studio and iconic Beatles landmark in London’s St John’s Wood.
Abbey Road crossing
5.9 km
Explore the iconic Abbey Road crossing, a legendary landmark in London where music history and culture collide, perfect for Beatles fans and tourists alike.
3 Abbey Rd.
5.9 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
London Central Mosque
6.0 km
London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
Lord's Cricket Ground
6.0 km
The world's most prestigious cricket venue and the undisputed 'Home of Cricket' since 1814.
Euston War Memorial
6.1 km
A solemn 13-meter obelisk and bronze statues honor London’s railway workers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
St Pancras New Church
6.1 km
A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Woburn Walk
6.2 km
London's first pedestrianized shopping street, a beautifully preserved Regency gem in literary Bloomsbury.
46 Noel Rd
6.2 km
Explore the architectural diversity and cultural richness of London at 46 Noel Rd, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Highgate Inn
0.4 km
Discover the heart of London at The Highgate Inn, a cozy pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an inviting atmosphere.
Highgate Cemetery
1.6 km
A hauntingly beautiful Victorian cemetery in North London, home to Karl Marx, George Eliot, and countless Gothic tombs, where history, nature, and legend intertwine.
The Intrepid Fox
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique drinks at The Intrepid Fox, the heart of Archway's nightlife in London.
Go Ape Alexandra Palace
2.1 km
Experience thrilling urban treetop adventures with panoramic London views at Go Ape Alexandra Palace, perfect for families and thrill seekers alike.
Hampstead Heath
2.5 km
Escape to Hampstead Heath, a sprawling urban oasis with ancient woodlands, swimming ponds, and stunning panoramic views over London.
2 Willow Road
3.1 km
Explore 2 Willow Road, Ernő Goldfinger’s iconic 1939 modernist family home blending bold architecture with mid-century art in leafy Hampstead.
Keats House
3.2 km
Step into the Regency home where John Keats penned timeless poetry and found love, surrounded by tranquil gardens and literary history.
Burgh House
3.2 km
Discover Burgh House, a stunning Queen Anne historic house and vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Hampstead, London.
Royal Free Hospital
3.3 km
A leading London hospital blending advanced medical care with compassionate patient support in a vibrant urban setting.
National Trust - Fenton House and Garden
3.4 km
Explore a 17th-century merchant’s house with historic collections, stunning gardens, and panoramic London views in tranquil Hampstead.
Capital Ring
3.6 km
Explore London's diverse green spaces and urban charm on the 78-mile Capital Ring circular walking route.
St John-at-Hampstead Church
3.8 km
Historic Anglican church in Hampstead with classical architecture, rich heritage, and a distinctive copper spire dating back to 1747.
Emirates Stadium
3.9 km
Explore the iconic Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal FC, blending modern architecture with rich football heritage in the heart of London.
Downhills Park
4.0 km
A spacious urban oasis in Haringey offering gardens, sports facilities, and inclusive recreation for all ages.
Camden Art Centre
4.2 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and creative spaces in a historic London setting at Camden Art Centre.
Essential places to dine
Rossopomodoro Camden
4.5 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian dishes in the vibrant heart of Camden, London.
Mildreds Camden
4.5 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
wagamama camden
4.5 km
Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
4.7 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Jamon Jamon
4.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
Laz @Camden
4.8 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Daphne Restaurant
4.9 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Il Sugo
4.9 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
5.0 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Frida Camden
5.1 km
Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
5.6 km
A stylish, light‑filled pub in a historic King’s Cross goods depot, serving seasonal British classics and craft drinks just steps from Platform 9¾.
Portland
6.8 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
The Ninth
7.0 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
7.2 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Little Paris Store
1.4 km
Discover vintage French charm and eclectic home and fashion treasures in the heart of Crouch End at Little Paris Store.
Shop
4.3 km
A compact, ever-changing Camden Market shop serving eclectic vintage, designer finds and small-run curios in the Stables’ maze-like atmosphere.
Cyberdog
4.3 km
Step into Cyberdog, Camden’s neon-lit rave shop where futuristic fashion meets pounding techno beats in a vibrant club-like setting.
What Goes Around Comes Around
4.3 km
Dive into Camden's retro Americana vault at What Goes Around Comes Around, where vintage varsity jackets, Levi’s, and 80s tracksuits await in the Stables Market.
Zakka Camden
4.4 km
Discover artist-designed cushions and design-led gifts at this quirky Camden Market gem, blending Japanese zakka charm with London's creative pulse.
Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
4.4 km
Discover curated vintage and indie fashion treasures in Camden Stables Market's historic heart – where retro meets rebellious style. (112 characters)
Camden Gift
4.4 km
Quirky Camden souvenirs, stylish gear, and luggage relief on vibrant Chalk Farm Road—a slice of alternative London in one eclectic stop.
To Home From London
4.4 km
Camden's go-to for handcrafted London souvenirs: witty mugs, sturdy totes, and homewares that pack whimsy and quality into every piece.
KESKIN GIFT
4.4 km
Discover handmade wonders at Keskin Gift, where Camden's craft spirit shines through chess sets, masks, and artisanal jewelry in the iconic Lock Market.
Mr Frinky
4.4 km
Compact, colourful and cheeky — a Camden Lock stall for witty signs, magnets and small‑batch souvenirs with retro flair.
Nook Shop
5.0 km
A chic, eco-conscious lifestyle boutique offering curated gifts and design treasures in the heart of Stoke Newington.
Hackney Flea Market
5.2 km
Discover rare vintage treasures and salvaged antiques in a lively, community-focused market nestled in Stoke Newington’s historic Abney Hall.
Canopy Market
5.3 km
Historic Victorian market hall reviving King's Cross with independent food, craft, and community every weekend.
Gift Centre London
5.6 km
Discover a unique blend of gifts, souvenirs, and practical items at Gift Centre London, your one-stop shop for memorable finds.
The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾
5.7 km
Experience the magic of Harry Potter at The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ in London, a must-visit destination for fans and tourists alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hawley Arms
4.4 km
Camden’s intimate music pub — cosy sofas, punters and live gigs in a scuffed, music-filled setting.
Sunlight Lounge
4.4 km
An intimate Camden Road lounge serving relaxed drinks in a softly lit, conversational setting for small groups and neighbourhood evenings.
Canalside Bar
4.4 km
Sip cocktails by the Regent's Canal in King's Cross, where trendy lounge vibes meet waterside serenity in London's revitalized heart.
The Devonshire Arms
4.5 km
A cosy NW1 pub where grilled dishes and small rock gigs meet—intimate evenings, unpolished energy and classic pub bones in the heart of Kentish Town Road.
The Elephants Head
4.5 km
Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.
Bucks Head
4.6 km
Lively Camden pub with roof terrace views, pub grub, real ales, and festive vibes opposite Buck Street Market—perfect for soaking up the neighborhood's electric energy.
All About Eve
4.6 km
1950s cocktail glamour meets Camden's karaoke chaos in this retro-inspired bar with inventive drinks and heated terrace vibes.
Simmons Bar | Camden Town
4.6 km
Neon-lit, budget-friendly cocktail bar in Camden with teapot cocktails, karaoke and a chaotic, retro-packed interior for groups and nights out.
Bobby Fitzpatrick
4.6 km
Step into a vibrant 1970s-themed cocktail bar in West Hampstead, where expertly crafted rum drinks meet retro charm and playful culinary twists.
The World's End
4.7 km
Camden’s legendary pub and live music venue blending rich history, vibrant nightlife, and authentic local spirit in the heart of London.
Camden Head
4.9 km
A Victorian‑charm pub on Camden High Street — hearty plates, rotating ales and comedy‑night energy that turns lively after dark.
Be At One - Camden
5.1 km
Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
Little Bat
5.2 km
Discover Little Bat, a stylish Islington cocktail bar with creative drinks, eclectic decor, and a standout small plates menu by chef James Cochran.
Spiritland
5.2 km
Immerse yourself in exceptional sound, creative cocktails, and a vibrant music culture at Spiritland King's Cross.
Laki Kane Cocktail Bar & Thai Restaurant Islington
5.5 km
Escape to a vibrant tropical oasis in Islington with Laki Kane’s handcrafted rum cocktails, Caribbean-inspired cuisine, and immersive island vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monster Queen
4.2 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Club Stable
4.3 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
4.5 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Egg London Nightclub
4.6 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
Soul City
4.7 km
A Saturday-night Camden basement party celebrating soul, disco and funk with DJ-led, record-minded sets in The Jazz Cafe’s atmospheric room.
Club Swizzle
4.8 km
Dive into acrobatic cabaret mayhem at the Roundhouse: Swizzle Boys flip chairs, Reuben Kaye slays with wit, and the bar becomes your front-row thrill ride in Camden's hottest 2018 spectacle.
Max's Other Flat
5.2 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
London Best Night Clubs
7.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
101 Nightclub London
7.3 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
7.3 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
7.5 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Carwash Nightclub
7.5 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
XOYO LONDON
7.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.5 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
7.5 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Localy Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
