The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Havering Country Park
4.4
(520)
3,435
hikers
184
hikes
Havering Country Park offers a variety of family friendly hiking trails through diverse landscapes. The park features extensive mixed woodlands, ancient oak-hornbeam forests, and open meadows, providing varied scenery for hikers. Gentle hills, all under 200m, make the terrain accessible for a wide range of abilities. Additionally, the park includes acid and neutral grassland areas and two ponds, supporting rich biodiversity.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Havering Country Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Tree-Lined Avenue…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.3
(4)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
19
hikers
14.2km
03:52
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(2)
7
hikers
16.7km
04:35
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.82km
02:05
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.12km
01:07
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Quite Steep, if going downhill you get dumped onto lower bedford road through a narrow opening, with no pavement. This is a lot busier than broxhill road and if heading towards Harold Wood there is an immediate short climb. I tried this as an alternative to going down broxhill road, but IMHO it does not work.
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This is a beautiful ride along a gravel track through a tree-lined avenue dotted with pine trees.
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Gravel trails leading from Havering Country Park in the east, towards Hainault Forest in the west. This track follows the local authority boundary and skirts to the north of the golf course.
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Great view from the edge of the woods across heathland to the London skyline.
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Hainault Forest is an ancient forest home to an array of beautiful plant and animal species. There's a canopy of oak and hornbeam and a burst of seasonal bluebells in spring, accompanied by an impressive display of around 158 bird species! The views from within the forest of the surrounding area are fantastic. There's also a boating lake, miniature henge and café to explore.
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Hainault Forest trails feature a number of sculptures fashioned out of the woodland.
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The traffic island in the road here is a great place to see this southerly view. I didn't have much time to stop & look as my bus was coming, but I highly recommend it,
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You'll find the Boating Lake in Hainault Forest Country Park, a little slice of peaceful, green paradise away from the urban sprawl. The London LOOP trail goes past it, so if you're walking and fancy a chance at seeing the area from the water, why not stop and take a boat out? You can hire traditional rowing boats by the hour. If you're happy on land, the lake is a nice place to stop for a snack.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Havering Country Park?
Havering Country Park offers a wide variety of hiking options, with over 100 easy routes perfect for families. In total, there are nearly 180 trails to explore, ranging from gentle strolls to more moderate adventures.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Havering Country Park?
The park features diverse landscapes, including extensive mixed woodlands, ancient woodlands, and open meadows. You'll find gentle hills, with elevations generally under 200m, making most trails suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. Paths are well-maintained, offering a pleasant experience for families.
Are there any notable natural features or landmarks to see on the trails?
Absolutely! A highlight is the impressive Wellingtonia Avenue, home to Giant Sequoia trees dating back to the 19th century. You can experience this on routes like the Tree-Lined Avenue – Redwood Grove Path loop from Havering-Atte-Bower. From certain viewpoints, you can also enjoy picturesque glimpses of the London skyline, as featured on the Havering Country Park – View of the London Skyline loop from Havering-Atte-Bower.
Can we spot any wildlife while hiking with kids?
Yes, Havering Country Park is a haven for wildlife! It's known for its rich biodiversity, including a wide variety of bird species like firecrests, hobbies, sparrowhawks, and all three British woodpeckers. Mammals such as muntjac deer, badgers, and foxes also inhabit the park, offering exciting opportunities for nature spotting with children.
Are the trails in Havering Country Park suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
While many paths are well-maintained, the park's diverse terrain, including gentle hills and woodland paths, means that not all trails are fully accessible for all types of strollers or wheelchairs. We recommend checking individual route details on komoot for specific surface information to ensure suitability for your needs.
Is Havering Country Park dog-friendly?
Yes, Havering Country Park is generally dog-friendly, making it a great place to bring your canine companions for a walk. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other park visitors, and always clean up after your pet.
What is the best time of year to visit Havering Country Park with family?
Havering Country Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer walks, and even winter walks can be magical, especially along the Wellingtonia Avenue. Consider checking local weather forecasts before your visit.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Many of the trails in Havering Country Park are designed as loops, which are perfect for family outings as you end up back where you started. For example, the Tree-Lined Avenue – Redwood Grove Path loop from Collier Row offers a moderate circular option.
Where can we park when visiting Havering Country Park?
Havering Country Park has designated parking facilities available for visitors. Specific parking locations and any potential fees can often be found on the local council's website. For more detailed information on park facilities, you can visit the Havering Council website.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Havering Country Park?
The komoot community highly rates Havering Country Park, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's peaceful atmosphere, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the impressive Wellingtonia trees. Many also appreciate the varied trails suitable for different abilities and the chance to spot local wildlife.
Are there options for longer family hikes in the park?
While many trails are easy and shorter, there are also options for families looking for a longer adventure. For instance, the Redwood Grove Path – View of the London Skyline loop from Havering-Atte-Bower is a moderate 14.6 km route that combines several scenic elements of the park.
Most popular routes around Havering Country Park
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