If you are seeking a different destination for a stroll this bank holiday weekend, a gem of a park in North London offers rolling meadows, lakes, and sprawling ancient forests to explore. Trent Country Park in Enfield has been described as a sanctuary for wildlife and visitors alike and forms part of London's Green Belt.
Park Features and History
Within its boundaries lie remnants of Enfield Chase, a former royal hunting ground where Muntjac deer, rabbits, and pheasants now roam freely. At the park's centre sits Camlet Moat, whose origins remain a mystery. Legend suggests the ghost of Geoffrey De Mandeville, Constable of the Tower of London and former Earl of Sussex and Hertfordshire, has haunted the moat since the 12th century.
Visitors can also explore the small villa constructed for Dr Richard Jebb, George III's preferred physician, by architect William Chambers, who famously designed Somerset House.
Wildlife and Activities
The park boasts diverse wildlife throughout. Visitors will encounter animals grazing across farmland, accompanied by pheasants, plump partridges, and pigeons. There is also an impressive variety of birds, including great crested grebe, kingfisher, hobby, treecreeper, nuthatch, great spotted woodpecker, robin, and the humble sparrow.
For those feeling adventurous, the park features a Go Ape high ropes course. Perfect for families or groups, this challenge includes zip lines and swings up to 16 metres above the woodland floor.
Visitor Reviews
Trent Country Park received Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards in 2022, achieving an average rating of 4.5 out of five stars. One guest remarked: "Fantastic place for a stroll or a picnic; some areas tend to be more crowded than others, but it is easy to find more secluded paths. There is a lovely lake and nice café to make your experience even better!"
Another visitor noted: "I had not been here for maybe 15 or 20 years but decided to come for a walk of about 2 hours. We more or less headed around the boundary and covered perhaps 4 to 5 miles. There is an interesting and varied environment from lush woodland, farmers' fields, and open spaces."
Getting There
Trent Country Park sprawls across 413 acres and includes meadows, captivating brooks, beautiful lakes, ancient woodland, and fascinating historical landmarks. The address is 331 Cockfosters Road, Barnet EN4 0JY. The nearest Underground stations are Cockfosters and Oakwood. The park is a short walk from Cockfosters station, making it easily reachable on the Piccadilly line.
