Havering Friends of the Earth

Walks without a car

by Peter Caton; first published 5-Apr-2024

Bluebells in Frank's Wood, Cranham - Peter Caton

With spring on its way the paths will soon be dry and the weather more conducive to walking. We are fortunate in Havering to be near to the countryside and that for those who don't have a car, or choose to leave it at home, there are plenty of opportunities to get close to nature and access walks by public transport.

Raphael Park, once part of the Gidea Hall Estate, with an attractive lake, historic buildings and a café, is ideal for a gentle stroll close to the centre of Romford. Buses (174, 498) stop outside the gate on Main Road, or it can be approached from the town centre through Lodge Farm Park.

From Upminster, which borders our precious Green Belt, one can walk directly into the countryside, The Chase to All Saint's Church and Cranham Nature Reserve, or Pike Lane to Thames Chase both providing easy access from close to bus stops. Cranham Brickfields, a nature reserve also offering routes further into the countryside, has bus stops nearby (248, 346) and the adjacent Frank's Wood is well worth visiting in spring for its magnificent bluebell displays.

In Hornchurch, Harrow Lodge Park, the borough's largest urban park, is close to Elm Park station and served by several bus routes (165, 193, 248, 365). The park, which was formerly the manors of Maylards Green and Wybridge, also has a café and in summer even offers boat hire on the lake.

On the boundary with Thurrock, the RSPB's Rainham Marshes reserve includes a 2½ mile trail with hides to view the wide variety of birds that enjoy the marsh and ponds, plus a visitor centre and café. Entry is free and whilst non-members are now charged for car parking, the reserve and adjacent Thames river walls can be accessed from Purfleet or Rainham station or buses (44, 372).

Taking the train a little further, there are many options for varied walks. Benfleet to Leigh on Sea via Hadleigh Castle is an excellent 4 mile ramble with fine views. Two urban walks with much to see, are to follow the Greenway from West Ham station, or take the Thames Path from Limehouse to Tower Hill. Heading further into Essex, the Southminster branch line (change at Wickford) offers linear walks along the river from Althorne or North Fambridge to Burnham on Crouch, or out into the wilds of the Dengie Peninsular towards Bradwell.