Havering boasts more than 100 parks and open spaces, making it one of London's greenest boroughs. From historic grounds to wildlife havens, these outdoor spaces offer residents free recreation, nature trails, and a welcome escape from urban life.
Hornchurch Country Park
Hornchurch Country Park sits on the site of the former RAF Hornchurch airfield, a key fighter station during the Second World War. Today, the 104-hectare park offers meadows, woodland, and scrubland alongside the River Ingrebourne. The park's military heritage remains visible in its preserved pillboxes and airfield remains, which serve as a reminder of its wartime role.
The park features the Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, which provides information about local wildlife and walking routes. The area is particularly popular with birdwatchers, as the River Ingrebourne and surrounding wetlands attract diverse species throughout the year. A network of surfaced and unsurfaced paths allows for walks of varying lengths and difficulty.
St Andrew's Park, Hornchurch
Located in the heart of Hornchurch, St Andrew's Park offers a compact but well-maintained green space for local residents. The park provides a pleasant setting for short walks and features open grass areas suitable for informal recreation. Its central location makes it easily accessible for Hornchurch residents seeking nearby outdoor space.
Raphael Park
Raphael Park in Gidea Park is one of Havering's most visited parks, centred around a large lake fed by the River Rom. The park dates back to the Victorian era and retains much of its original character, with mature trees, formal gardens, and a boating lake. The park holds Green Flag status, recognising its high standards of maintenance and facilities.
Visitors will find a children's playground, tennis courts, and a café near the lake. The park is particularly popular during summer months when the boating lake opens and the formal gardens are in full bloom.
Harrow Lodge Park
Harrow Lodge Park in Hornchurch is one of the borough's largest parks, featuring two lakes, extensive woodland, and sports facilities including a cricket pitch and football pitches. The park connects to the Hornchurch Country Park via the River Ingrebourne path, creating a continuous green corridor through the area.
The park includes a dedicated children's play area, outdoor gym equipment, and a model railway operated by the Havering Miniature Railway Club on selected weekends. The lakes attract waterfowl and provide a peaceful setting for walkers.
Bedfords Park
Bedfords Park in Havering-atte-Bower offers panoramic views across London and Essex from its elevated position. The 215-acre park includes ancient woodland, grassland, and a deer enclosure that has housed red deer since the 18th century. The park's visitor centre provides information about the site's history and wildlife.
The park is managed in partnership with the Essex Wildlife Trust, ensuring conservation of its habitats. Several waymarked trails allow visitors to explore different parts of the park, from shaded woodland walks to open hilltop routes.
Practical Information
Most Havering parks are open from dawn until dusk throughout the year. Parking is available at the larger sites including Hornchurch Country Park, Raphael Park, and Bedfords Park. The borough's parks are maintained by Havering Council, with volunteer friends' groups supporting many individual sites.
Dogs are welcome in most parks but must be kept under control, with specific restrictions applying in children's play areas and nature reserves. Some parks host organised events during summer months; details are published on the council's website.