Attractions and Places To See around the London Borough Of Havering - Top 20

The borough offers extensive natural areas. You can visit Havering Country Park, known for its open grassland, woodlands, and an avenue of Wellingtonia trees. Other notable parks include Hornchurch Country Park, Raphael Park, Bedfords Park, Eastbrookend Country Park, and Central Park, Harold Hill. For significant wildlife habitats, explore The Chase Nature Reserve, The Manor Nature Reserve, and Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve.

Yes, the London Borough of Havering is rich in history. You can explore the Grade II listed Upminster Windmill, the Georgian Rainham Hall, and the 18th-century Langtons House and Gardens. Other historical sites include St Edward the Confessor Church, Bower House, and the Havering Country Park, which was once part of a royal estate. Don't miss the Concrete Barges and The Diver Sculpture, a unique historical monument.

Many attractions cater to families. Dagnam Park (The Manor) is a large, open forest area where deer are often present. Havering Country Park and Central Park, Harold Hill offer plenty of space for walks and play. The Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre is also family-friendly, providing information about local habitats and a cafe. For active families, the Ingrebourne Bike Track is a great option.

The borough offers numerous walking opportunities. Havering Country Park is ideal for peaceful strolls, including the London LOOP path. You can also explore the Rainham Marshes Path, a quiet gravel path winding through historic marshes to the Thames. For more structured routes, consider the hiking trails listed in the Hiking around the London Borough Of Havering guide, which includes routes like the 'Flooded Pathway – Albyns Farm Lake loop'.

Yes, there are several options for cyclists. The Gravel Trail from Havering-atte-Bower to Hainault Forest offers a scenic off-road section. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Ingrebourne Bike Track is a dedicated facility. You can find more routes in the MTB Trails around the London Borough Of Havering guide, such as the 'Ingrebourne Hill summit – Albyns Farm Lake loop'.

The London Borough of Havering is excellent for wildlife. The Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre is located within the largest freshwater marshland in Greater London, a vital breeding ground for a wide array of birds. Hornchurch Country Park, Bedfords Park (home to a herd of deer), and Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve are also prime locations for birdwatching and observing diverse plant and animal life.

Beyond historical buildings, you can visit the Havering Museum in Romford, which showcases the borough's heritage. The historic Romford Market, dating back to 1247, is one of the oldest and largest street markets in the South East. For performing arts, check out the Brookside Theatre or Queen's Theatre. The RAF Hornchurch Heritage Centre offers insights into the area's aviation history.

Yes, from the top of the restored Upminster Windmill, you can enjoy views that even stretch to Canary Wharf. Albyns Farm Lake also offers scenic views, particularly of the lake itself.

Visitors frequently praise the peaceful and tranquil settings. For example, Havering Country Park is noted as a perfect place for a quiet stroll, especially among the giant redwoods. Dagnam Park (The Manor) is appreciated for being a quiet, calm spot and family-friendly, with the chance to see deer. The Rainham Marshes Path is loved for its quiet gravel path and scenic views, especially when the sun is out.

Many of the natural areas, like the Rainham Marshes Path, are enjoyable all year round. However, they are often at their best when the sun is out, allowing for clearer views and more pleasant walks. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and more active wildlife, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.

While specific accessibility details for all sites are not extensively provided, many country parks and visitor centres often have accessible paths. The Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre and its immediate surroundings are generally designed to be accessible, offering facilities and paths suitable for a wider range of visitors. It's always recommended to check directly with specific venues for detailed accessibility information.

Yes, Romford is home to the historic Romford Market, which has been operating since 1247 and features around 200 stalls three days a week. For modern retail, The Liberty Shopping Centre in Romford offers a wide range of shops and dining options.