1 / 2Hainault Forest - Adventure Play Area
📍 Chigwell, Greater London
167-hectare ancient woodland in east London with an adventure playground, Foxburrow Farm animals including donkeys and ponies, Thomas the Tank Engine train rides, lakeside walks, pottery workshops, and the 1856 Café.
It was amazing walking through the wooded area to get to the playground. The trees provided lots of shade the air was cool and crisp and you could see the animals. Next to the playground was an animal farm. Just small enough to be enjoyed by little ones. I'd say the playground is suitable for kids up to 8 years old. The ropes are more for the older ones. All in all free fun day nit for the family. Maybe pack some sandwiches and snacks when you visit!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 2–8 who want a full countryside day out within easy reach of east London. Train rides, farm animals, and woodland walks layer up the experience well beyond a single playground visit. Older children and adults get value from the walking routes and workshops.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →20 Google reviews
Fati O.
8 months ago
“It was amazing walking through the wooded area to get to the playground. The trees provided lots of shade the air was cool and crisp and you could see the animals. Next to the playground was an animal farm. Just small enough to be enjoyed by little ones. I'd say the playground is suitable for kids up to 8 years old. The ropes are more for the older ones. All in all free fun day nit for the family. Maybe pack some sandwiches and snacks when you visit!”
kristina sim
2 years ago
“This is such a fantastic outdoors play for kids. Beautiful views, scenery with pond and little bridges over it, farm with donkeys and ponies, pottery making place, 2 cafes, ice cream van, and also beautiful adventure playground which is great for almost any age I would say. We were lucky to get a ride on the train (ride takes around 10-15min, it goes every 20min and costs &3 per person, train driver is very entertaining)”
Simon Elmon
a year ago
“Great open space area where you can go for nice walks,ride a Thomas the tank engine train . The area is equipped with a great cafe and if you get a chance see some glass blowing”
Gladstone Williams
a year ago
“With an app parking fees are reasonable, there are some height restrictions. Good day out on our door step.My grandson enjoyed it”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Hainault Forest combines a woodland adventure playground with Foxburrow Farm's donkeys and ponies, a miniature train circuit, lakeside walking routes with bridges, pottery and glass-blowing workshops, and café facilities. The forest covers 167 hectares of ancient oak woodland with Green Flag status. The playground is newer build and best suited to children under 8; the wider grounds reward all ages on foot.
