Hainault Forest Country Park

You’ll feel a million miles away from the city in this 336-acre park, which is one of the last remaining sections of the Forest of Essex – a former hunting ground, and now, one of the best examples of medieval woodland still in existence. Stroll around the gorgeous woodland, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plants – the rare sound of nightingales have been heard here, and you can spot turtle doves and butterflies in the summer. Come in spring to see a cobalt carpet of bluebells and don’t miss a visit to the petting zoo and lake for the ultimate day out.