Woodberry Wetlands In Hackney, London
If you’re searching for a peaceful escape from the busy streets of London, Woodberry Wetlands is an absolute treasure. Located just off Lordship Road in N16, this hidden gem offers a beautiful blend of natural wildlife, scenic water views, and family-friendly activities that make it perfect for a smart family day out. We took our kids there over the weekend, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best free family activities in London.
From the moment we stepped through the gates, the feeling of being in the countryside instantly hit us. The Wetlands are a lovely spot to stroll around, whether you fancy a leisurely walk with a buggy or your kids are ready to explore on scooters. There are smooth paths circling the lake and wetlands, making it a great spot for a relaxing afternoon walk while the little ones race ahead on scooters or toddle along.
You’ll find two fantastic playgrounds nestled within the Wetlands, and my kids were immediately drawn to the one with the shiny silver tube slide (it looks a bit like the Shard!). They spent ages there, zooming down the slide and running around. There’s also a brilliant log trail, and for little explorers, spotting wildlife was a big hit. We even saw some adorable ducklings, although my phone camera didn’t quite do them justice!
Woodberry Wetlands is home to loads of wildlife, and the kids absolutely loved trying to spot all the different animals and birds. It’s the sort of place where you might feel like you’ve stepped out of London and into the countryside, all while staying just a short distance from the hustle and bustle. There are also some quirky touches like the Wind in the Willowssculptures, which our children enjoyed climbing on during our walk.
If you’re lucky, you might spot some rare species of birds and even new chicks. It’s a brilliant way to get the kids engaged with nature, and they’ll have fun spotting animals while learning something new.
It’s not just the kids who’ll have a good time here. The park is wonderfully relaxing, with plenty of space to roam, and there’s even a café where you can sit back with a coffee or bite to eat. The pathways are buggy-friendly, so no worries if you’ve got a pram in tow, and it’s a perfect spot for a family outing, whether you’ve got toddlers or older kids.
Woodberry Wetlands really is a perfect spot for all ages. There’s enough space for toddlers to roam, playgrounds to keep kids entertained, and it’s a peaceful area for parents to unwind. It feels like a countryside escape right in the middle of London. If you’re after smart ways to enjoy London on a budget with kids, this is definitely a place to visit.
The Wetlands are open all year round, though the closing times change depending on the season. Whether you come for a quick afternoon stroll or spend a full day here, it’s a hidden gem that I highly recommend. Next time you’re in North London, make sure to stop by Woodberry Wetlands for a peaceful family outing.
Essential information for those looking to visit the Woodberry Wetlands:
- Address: River Path, Lordship Road, London, N16 5HQ
- Opening Times:
October – March: 9:30am – 4pm
April – September: 9:30am – 5pm
(Check for early closures on special days) - Best for: Nature walks, wildlife spotting, playground fun
- Facilities: Playground, café, buggy-friendly paths, toilets
- Nearby: North London spots, Lordship Road, Stoke Newington
Make sure you don’t miss out on this smart family activity! Add it to your list of free London attractions for families. Whether it’s spotting wildlife, exploring the playgrounds, or taking a peaceful walk by the water, Woodberry Wetlands offers something for everyone.
Map
- Address Woodberry Wetlands, River Path Lordship Road, London, N16 5HQ
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