Key to Symbols

  • Café/refreshments available
  • Toilets available
  • Picnic area available
  • Public bus service stops within one quarter of a mile of the attraction.
    Call the traveline on 0871 200 2233 for public transport information. www.traveline.info
  • Train station within one mile

twitter Places to Visit

Belhus Woods Country Park

Address: Romford Road, Aveley, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ

Telephone: 0845 603 7624.

Available facilities

  • Refreshments
  • Toilets
  • Picnic Area
  • BBQ
  • Fishing Lake
  • Countryside
  • Events
  • Education
  • Cycling
  • Available for Functions
  • Parking
  • Dogs Allowed
  • Walks
  • Horse Riding
  • Lakes

This diverse landscape of ancient woodland, grassland and lakes is managed by Essex County Council Ranger Service and situated within Thames Chase Community Forest. It includes newly planted areas of woodland owned by the Woodland Trust and Forestry Commision.

The park was originally part of the Belhus Estate, home of the Barrett and Lennard families from the 15th to the 20th Century. The grounds were designed by 'Capability Brown' and work carried out by Richard Woods.

Some areas of woodland are managed by the rangers on a traditional coppice rotation.

This provides products for traditional crafts such as thatching and hurdle making. It also increases light onto sections of the woodland floor resulting in spring blooms bluebells and other wild flowers, such as purple orchids and ragged robin in late April and early May which visitors can enjoy at their best. Spring is also the best time for hearing the woodland song birds and spotting the many other bird species, including ducks, geese and grebes, which live around the lakes.

There are several well-marked routes to guide visitors around the site, whether you want a short stroll around the woodland or a longer walk taking in the lakes. The rangers also run a programme of guided walks together with a variety of other events or you can fish, play, picnic, ride or simply sit by the water's edge and feed the birds.

  • View the spectacular fauna and flora
  • The ancient woodland offers a wildlife haven
  • Enjoy scenic walks and beautiful views across the park.
  • Take part in nature events or educational activities
  • Model railway and boat club
  • Sports: Archery field and Jnr club football field
  • Reasonably level site with good access for wheelchair users.
  • Fishing platforms available for less-able anglers - key available on deposit.
  • Greenflag award site

 

Opening times

The park is open daily from 8:00am till dusk
The visitor centre is open daily from 10:00am till 4:00pm. (Except 25 December)

 

Contact details

Address:
Belhus Woods Country Park
Romford Road, Aveley, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ

Telephone:
01708 865628

 

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