Hatfield Forest
nature-reservepark-gardens

🌳Hatfield Forest

🌳Outdoors👶Ages 2–18+
Hatfield Forest photo
Hatfield Forest photo 3
Hatfield Forest photo 4
Hatfield Forest photo 5
Hatfield Forest photo 6
+14 more

A unique medieval royal hunting forest managed by the National Trust, Hatfield Forest offers 404 hectares of ancient woodland, grassland, and a large lake. Families can enjoy walking and cycling trails, den building in the woods, pond dipping by the lake, and feeding the birds. The Forest also hosts seasonal events and has a large picnic area.

Facilities include a café serving hot and cold food, ice cream, and drinks, plus toilets and baby-changing facilities. The car park is pay-and-display (free for National Trust members). There are no formal playgrounds, but the natural environment provides endless opportunities for exploration and imaginative play.

Recommended for children aged 2 and up; younger ones can enjoy the easy, pushchair-friendly paths. Dogs are welcome on leads. Note: some paths can get muddy after rain, so bring wellies.

At a glance

💷

Cost

Moderate

🌳

Setting

Outdoor

👶

Ages

2–18+

📍

County

Essex
🏴

Country

England

Travel tips

Location

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!

Sign in to leave a review

Nearby places

See all →
Finn's Way Playground
1.0 mi

🛝Finn's Way Playground

Finn's Way Playground is a well-equipped, modern playground located within a residential area of Bishops Stortford. It features a range of play equipment suitable for toddlers and older children, including swings, slides, climbing frames, and a roundabout. The playground is fenced, providing a safe environment for young children to play. Facilities include benches for parents, a grassy area, and nearby on-street parking. It is a popular local spot for families living in the neighbourhood. There are no public toilets or cafe on site, but the town centre is a short drive away.

Epping Ongar Railway
10.8 mi

🚂Epping Ongar Railway

A heritage railway running steam and diesel trains through the scenic Essex countryside between Epping and Ongar. Kids will love riding in vintage carriages, waving at the engine, and visiting the station museum with old signal boxes and railway memorabilia. Special events include Thomas the Tank Engine days, Santa Specials, and seasonal fun. Facilities: café serving hot drinks and snacks, picnic areas, gift shop, and free parking. Pushchair access is good on the trains and at stations. There are no dedicated playgrounds, but the experience of the train ride itself is a highlight for young train enthusiasts. Best for ages 2–12, though all ages welcome. Practical tips: Check the timetable as trains only run on selected days (weekends and school holidays). Buy tickets online in advance to guarantee a seat. Dress warmly as carriages can be chilly in winter. Allow 1–2 hours for a round trip.

Audley End House and Gardens
11.8 mi

🏰Audley End House and Gardens

A magnificent Jacobean mansion set in extensive parkland, Audley End offers families a chance to explore history both indoors and out. The house features opulent State Rooms and the Victorian Service Wing, where kids can see how servants lived and worked. Outdoors, the formal gardens include a parterre, kitchen garden, and woodland walks. Highlights for children include the adventure playground, miniature railway (seasonal), and family activity trails. The Stableyard Cafe serves light meals and snacks. Practical tips: Allow at least 3-4 hours. Pushchairs are available for loan. The gardens are mostly accessible, but the house has stairs. Parking is free.

Lee and Stort Boats
11.9 mi

🛥️Lee and Stort Boats

Lee & Stort Boat Co Ltd offers a variety of river cruises and experiences, including scheduled trips, tours, and private hire options. They operate moorings at both Ware Town Quay in Hertfordshire and at Stratford Waterfront Pontoon in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, providing diverse options for families seeking leisurely boat trips. For more information or to book a cruise, visit their official website at https://www.leeandstortboats.co.uk/overview.