About the reserve

A historic 215-acre green landscape between Collier Row and Harold Hill, once a privately owned estate and now one of Havering’s largest parks with Green Flag status since 2007. Designated as a Local Nature Reserve, it features a gently rolling landscape with diverse habitats such as mature woodland, species-rich wildflower meadows, ponds, streams, and marshy areas.

The park is home to a popular captive herd of red deer, while wild species such as fallow, roe, and muntjac deer are often spotted. Its varied environments support an abundance of wildlife, including all three species of woodpecker, nuthatch, and hobby, alongside a wide range of invertebrates like butterflies, dragonflies, and damselflies. In winter, large flocks of rooks, crows, and jackdaws gather in impressive roosts.

Many exotic trees originally planted in the former mansion gardens can still be found, including Cedar of Lebanon, Holm Oak, Monkey-puzzle, Giant Redwood, and Yew. In spring, the meadows come alive with wildflowers such as cuckoo flower, pignut, and ragged robin. The upper section of the park offers more formal landscaped parkland, while the lower areas are managed primarily for wildlife, creating a rich and varied natural environment.

Bedfords Park Nature Discovery Centre is located on the site of the former mansion and offers far reaching views across east London and into Kent. Inside, visitors can enjoy light refreshments, snacks and a gift shop, while outside a spacious decked area provides a relaxing spot to sit and take in the scenery on sunny days.