The best family-friendly hikes and walks around the London Borough Of Havering

There are over 100 family-friendly hiking routes in the London Borough of Havering, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide focuses on a curated selection perfect for families, with 63 easy and 36 moderate options to explore.

The London Borough of Havering offers a diverse range of natural landscapes, perfect for family exploration. You'll find ancient woodlands, open meadowlands, and even marshlands. Many trails pass through significant green spaces like Havering Country Park, known for its mature forests and impressive redwood trees, and Hornchurch Country Park.

Yes, there are several easy, circular routes ideal for families. For a pleasant walk through woodlands, consider the Gravel Path Through Pages Wood – Pages Wood loop from Harold Wood, which is just over 6 km and rated easy. Another great option is the Winding Dirt Path – Albyns Farm Lake loop from Rainham Clocktower, an easy 7.2 km route that offers lovely lakeside views.

Havering's trails offer a variety of sights. You might encounter wildlife like muntjac deer, badgers, and woodpeckers, especially in areas like Havering Country Park. Many routes also feature beautiful natural landmarks such as Albyns Farm Lake. For those interested in nature conservation, the Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre is a great stop.

Absolutely! Havering-atte-Bower is the highest point in the borough, offering elevated views. The Redwood Grove Path – View of the London Skyline loop from Havering-Atte-Bower is a moderate route that provides opportunities for scenic vistas, including glimpses of the London skyline on a clear day.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the abundance of green spaces that make for enjoyable family outings. The diversity of landscapes, from forests to open meadows, is also frequently highlighted.

Several parks and nature reserves are excellent for families. Havering Country Park is a top choice with its vast woodlands and redwoods. Bedfords Park is another significant green space, and Cranham Brickfields Nature Reserve is a 'real gem' for its diverse wildlife habitats, offering interesting nature walks. You can find more information about Havering's parks on the official council website: havering.gov.uk/parks-1.

Many of Havering's parks and open spaces are dog-friendly, making them suitable for family hikes with your canine companions. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations or signage for any areas where dogs might need to be on a lead or are restricted, especially around nature reserves to protect wildlife.

Yes, for families seeking a longer adventure, the Rainham Railway Station loop from Rainham is a moderate 13.3 km route. Another moderate option is the Flooded Pathway – Albyns Farm Lake loop from Ingrebourne Marshes SSSI, which covers about 8 km and offers varied terrain.

The London Borough of Havering is enjoyable for family hikes year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and new growth, while summer offers lush greenery and longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter walks can be charming, especially in the woodlands. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific cafes directly on every trail might be limited, many parks, such as Havering Country Park and Bedfords Park, often have facilities or are close to amenities. The Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre is a good spot for information and facilities in that area. For broader options, you'll find cafes and pubs in the towns and villages surrounding the parks.