Berwick Glades

Visitor information

Escape the city, recharge your batteries and discover part of Thames Chase, Greater London's hidden gem

Come and roam the planted glades and wildflower meadows of this ancient farmland. You will be rewarded with excellent views of the Ingrebourne Valley, especially towards Hornchurch and Elm Park with an impressive hilly South Essex skyline in the distance.

An aerial photographic survey suggests this site has been settled and farmed for over 4000 years! This archaeological study revealed signs both of Bronze Age and Iron Age farmsteads plus, possibly, a Bronze Age burial mound on the site. Spring flowers and Autumn colour have transformed this farmland into a great destination for all. 

Public footpaths lead you to the nearby Hornchurch Country Park, Berwick Woods and Ingrebourne Hill, for those looking for a longer day out in the countryside.

At a glance

  • Walking 
  • Cycling 
  • Horse riding 
  • Dogs welcome

Things to do

Cycling is a fantastic way to explore Berwick Glades and soak up the beautiful scenery. 

Berwick Glades has a well surfaced public footpath that winds its way through the newly planted woodland. The path is interspersed with wild-flower meadows and is dotted with benches and picnic tables. 

Berwick Glades has a well surfaced public footpath that meanders through the newly planted woodland. The path is interspersed with wild-flower meadows and is dotted with benches and picnic tables. 

The public footpaths link to both Hornchurch and Berwick Woods.

Nearby forests

Sun setting behind silhouetted trees

Named after the Bonnetts family who farmed these fields as part of their Central Farm from the 1920’s, Bonnetts Wood is now the perfect place to relax and unwind. 

Flower meadows, small streams and native trees provide the ideal setting for quiet nature watching, connected by a network of paths winding through the area.

Community on bridge over small stream in woodland

As one of Thames Chase's largest woodlands, Cely Woods has an excellent network of paths and is a rich habitat with numerous insects and flowers. 

The wildlife across the wetlands is a year-round treat. Try observing it from the wooden bridge that straddles the stream and see what you can spot! 

You can also continue through to Belhus Woods Country Park via a safe road crossing on Romford Road, where you can grab some refreshments from the Visitor Centre. 

Autumn Forest Floor

With 4km of pathways and connections to Hornchurch Country Park, you can do it all on Ingrebourne Hill. 

There’s a great deal to look out for. Whether it’s mountain bikes hurtling around the specially built track; taking in relaxing views whilst enjoying a picnic beside the lake; playing in the Spitfire Scramble play area, or just observing the wildlife.

 

A walker walking through the forest in the autumn. The walker is looking up at the trees around them.

Thames Chase Forest Centre offers lots of features and bags of room for an exciting family day out.

The Thames Chase Trust runs the Thames Chase Forest Centre visitor centre, providing the perfect venue for a quick snack or wholesome lunch, as well as the opportunity to purchase local crafts and gifts. Among the Thames Chase Forest Centre buildings, you can still see the original 17th century Essex Barn, stables and farm house.

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