An ancient woodland in south east London has been praised by visitors as one of the most spellbinding walks in the capital. Oxleas Wood, located in Eltham, is one of the few remaining areas of ancient deciduous forest. Some parts of the woodlands date back over 8,000 years to the end of the last ice age, known as the Younger Dryas.
Features of Oxleas Wood
Oxleas Wood is home to thousands of oak, silver birch, hornbeam, and coppice hazel trees. Visitors can stroll along the Green Chain Walk through the site. A café perched on the top of the hill in the meadow is a popular spot for resting and socialising after a leisurely walk.
Severndroog Castle
Oxleas Wood is situated on the south side of Shooter's Hill, in a green corridor that includes Jack Wood and Castle Wood. Castle Wood is home to Severndroog Castle, an 18th-century folly tower. The castle features a viewing platform offering one of the most striking panoramic views across London. It is open on Sundays from 10am to 3pm, with entry priced at £5 for adults and £3.50 for children aged five to 15.
Severndroog Castle will host street food evenings on Friday, July 10, and Friday, August 7, from 5pm to 9pm. The viewing tower will open at 6pm for visitors to enjoy the sunset.
Visitor Reviews
Visitors have hailed Oxleas Wood as one of London's best-kept secrets. One TripAdvisor user wrote: "One of London's hidden gems! It is amazing to find such a magical woodland so close to the city. This is a wild woods listed as an ancient woodland, which means it is some 8,000 years old. We go almost every day, and it is good for the soul."
Another reviewer commented: "Oxleas Woods covers a large area – ideal for walking, running, exploring with young children, and exercising dogs. I accessed it from Castlewood Drive, Eltham, but there are many access points. Ancient oak trees, rich in bird life, designated paths, and little paths to explore. Volunteers keep the woods tidy. Severndroog Castle is open for coffees and treats most days, and one can tour the castle. They host night markets and farmers markets from time to time. A wonderful area to explore."
