Havering: Discover nature and history

In Havering, wetlands and paths through grassland sit alongside distinctive historic buildings and museums. You can tailor your trip to your interests, whether that means birdwatching, walks or learning about the borough’s history. When planning your hotel stay, it’s worth first considering which of Havering’s attractions appeals to you most.

Landscapes, paths and wildlife watching

Rainham Marshes is a wetland where visitors can spot wading birds, waterfowl, warblers and owls. The birds you may see vary by season. The flat gravel paths and boardwalks are suitable for pushchairs. The reserve hosts events throughout the year, including guided walks; check the latest dates before your visit.

At Havering Country Park, paths and bridleways pass through open grassland and densely wooded areas. The park was once part of the estate of the medieval Royal Palace of Havering, so you can combine time in the landscape with a connection to history. If you prefer to explore by bike, Hornchurch Country Park offers a different perspective on the area: the Ingrebourne Valley by Bicycle route runs through the park and Ingrebourne Valley.

Other green spaces each have their own character. Dagnam Park is part of The Manor Nature Reserve, which includes almost 20 hectares of wildflower meadows. At Dagnam Park, visitors can walk around the footprint of the original house, marked by exposed foundations. Cockerell’s moated site on Dagnam Park Farm is a protected ancient monument. Bedfords Park, meanwhile, is a Local Nature Reserve. The Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre at Bedfords Park offers panoramic views across East London; the park is also home to a herd of captive red deer. Hornchurch Country Park is home to the Essex Wildlife Trust’s Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre. The Ingrebourne Marshes in Hornchurch Country Park are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Buildings and local history

Upminster Windmill is a Grade II* listed building. The tall, octagonal post mill has a timber frame on a brick base. For a different example of historic architecture, visit Upminster Tithe Barn, which dates from 1450. The Upminster Tithe Barn Museum of Nostalgia houses an extensive collection of household items from the past century. Opening arrangements may vary, so check before planning your visit.

Rainham Hall is an elegant Georgian house dating from 1729. Rainham Hall’s community garden is in Rainham Village and includes woodland, lawns, an orchard and vegetable beds. Langtons Gardens also bring together gardens and architecture: a curved lake and a network of paths define the grounds, overlooked by Langtons House, a Georgian red-brick mansion. Anyone interested in religious buildings can visit St Helen and St Giles, the oldest building in Havering.

Havering Museum focuses on objects that document the borough’s history. The museum makes its collections accessible through exhibitions, events, activities and educational programmes. A historic walking tour of Rainham highlights the village’s architectural and historical features.

Walks and special experiences

There are walks to suit different distances: sections 20 to 24 of the London Loop can be walked in the London Borough of Havering. The paths to Rainham Hall are also part of the London Loop and are connected to public transport; specific connections may change, so check before setting out. These options complement the paths at Havering Country Park and the guided walks at Rainham Marshes.

You can also make culture part of an evening or your itinerary: Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is a producing theatre for Outer East London and South Essex. It offers bookable, one-hour backstage tours. As the offer may change, check the latest dates and availability before planning. Whether you focus your stay on nature, history or a mix of both, Havering’s varied places and experiences give your trip a clear theme.

Discover more destinations: Rainham, Romford, Hornchurch, Croydon, Camden, Hackney, Enfield, Tower Hamlets.

For the wider travel overview: Greater London.