1 / 3Hainault Forest
📍 Greater London
Ancient woodland country park on London's outskirts with Foxburrow Farm, adventure playground, boat hire, weekend Thomas train rides, and the 1856 Cafe. Pram-friendly paths throughout.
Hainault Forest Country Park is such a peaceful little escape from the city. Beautiful woodland walks, open green spaces, and fresh air that instantly makes you feel calmer. Perfect for families — there’s plenty of space for kids to run around, spot animals, and enjoy nature safely. The paths are great for prams, the views change with the seasons, and it never feels too crowded. Whether it’s a slow walk, a picnic, or just letting the kids explore, it’s a lovely place to spend a few hours and reset. Highly recommend for anyone nearby 🌳 Fantastic place for families. The farm is free with donations welcome, and the train rides at weekends are a big hit with kids. There’s so much to do, plenty of space to explore, and children absolutely love it. Parking is easy and paid via the RingGo app. A great day out that doesn’t cost much and keeps the kids happy — highly recommend!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 2 to 10 who want a full outdoor day combining nature, animals, and active play without heavy spending. The free farm and playground anchor the visit, with the woodland walks and lake providing scope for longer exploration. Weekend visits add the train rides.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →4,162 Google reviews
Ms Chhetri
2 months ago
“Hainault Forest Country Park is such a peaceful little escape from the city. Beautiful woodland walks, open green spaces, and fresh air that instantly makes you feel calmer. Perfect for families — there’s plenty of space for kids to run around, spot animals, and enjoy nature safely. The paths are great for prams, the views change with the seasons, and it never feels too crowded. Whether it’s a slow walk, a picnic, or just letting the kids explore, it’s a lovely place to spend a few hours and reset. Highly recommend for anyone nearby 🌳 Fantastic place for families. The farm is free with donations welcome, and the train rides at weekends are a big hit with kids. There’s so much to do, plenty of space to explore, and children absolutely love it. Parking is easy and paid via the RingGo app. A great day out that doesn’t cost much and keeps the kids happy — highly recommend!”
Kiran Ahmed
7 months ago
“Stunning country forest Park with lots of family friendly activities: - amazing play area for children - Great farm with a range of animals - high ropes for children to climb and be active - lots of activities indoors for children/adults - Thomas train ride around the country park - Good cafe with a selection of food - Easy access car park (pay for parking) - Toilet facilities on site - Lake with geese and ducks As part of Redbridge mega mix, we have participated in a few activities (craft making, glass blowing etc). We visit the country park on a regular basis and have enjoyed it. Great day out for all. Highly recommend.”
Natalia Streltsova
2 months ago
“Amazing place for families - new playground with kids train, free entrance farms with well cared animals, lovely café with proper freshly cooked food. Also good for walks and has big lake with stunning views from the top of the hill.”
Ozzie
a month ago
“Lovely little place to have a nice walk and tire out the kids during the holidays and weekends”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Hainault Forest covers 167 hectares of ancient woodland with a dedicated outdoor adventure playground, Foxburrow Farm with free entry, lakes with boat hire, and educational bushcraft programmes. Weekend Thomas train rides are a recurring highlight for younger children. The 1856 Cafe serves freshly cooked food on-site. Parking requires the RingGo app for payment.
