Nature & Wildlife: Parks, Farms, Woods & Hidden Green Spaces
Free wetlands, ancient woods, working farms and a surprising amount of wildlife sit right across South East London. You do not need an expensive attraction ticket to have a lovely day outdoors.
Pick your nature adventure
Woodlands Farm, Shooters Hill
An 89-acre working conservation farm and one of the strongest free family anchors in our local coverage. Apple Day, Sunday 18 October 2026, 11am–4pm: free entry, apple pressing, stalls and family activities; no parking on the event day.
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park
Free wetland habitat, bird hides and boardwalks. Managed by The Conservation Volunteers; check its current visiting days before travelling.
Oxleas, Castle and Jack Woods
Ancient woodland, Green Chain walking and wildlife on Shooters Hill. Expect natural terrain and some steep sections.
Lesnes Abbey Woods
Ancient woodland, abbey ruins, nature and family exploring near Abbey Wood. The gardens and woodland have different access conditions.
More green corners to discover
Charlton parks and nature
Maryon Park, Maryon Wilson Park and Gilbert’s Pit give Charlton a mix of wildlife, woodland, heritage and family space.
Thamesmead lakes and canals
Southmere Lake, Birchmere and the wider green-blue landscape make Thamesmead worth exploring beyond the usual attractions.
Creekside Discovery Centre
A different kind of nature experience: tidal creek ecology and organised low-tide walks in Deptford.
Eaglesfield Park
Playground, ecological pond, views and a Green Chain connection on Shooters Hill.
What will it cost — and can everyone join in?
Many parks, woodland areas, Woodlands Farm and Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park are free for general visits. Guided sessions, special events or specific activities may have a charge or booking requirement.
Explore another interest
Visitor details worth knowing
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park
Free entry; no advance booking for normal visits. The Conservation Volunteers currently list Wednesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm, with earlier dusk closing after the clocks change. Enter via the Gatehouse on the Thames Path, between John Harrison Way and Greenwich Yacht Club. North Greenwich station is around a 10–15 minute walk; nearby bus options include stops at Millennium Village Oval Square. The park has accessible facilities, but check the specific boardwalk and facilities you need before travelling.
Oxleas woodland wildlife walks
Friends of Oxleas Woodlands offer downloadable self-guided walks around Jack Wood, ancient Oxleas Wood and Severndroog Castle, with distances and approximate times. These are natural woodland routes with variable surfaces.
Wildlife changes through the year: listen for birdsong in spring, look for wildflowers and pollinators in warmer months, and enjoy autumn woodland colour. Observe wildlife without disturbing habitats, and follow each site’s guidance on dogs and paths.