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Measuring 403.2 hectares Hatfield Forest Park is a Nature Conservation Review site and National Nature Reserve in Essex. There are several notable things about Hatfield Forest Park including the medieval warren in the forest, and the fact that it is the last intact Royal Hunting Forest in the country.
Hatfield Forest Park was likely established as a Royal Forest in the 11th or 12th centuries but archeological records date back to the Iron Age. Portingbury Hills is a notable feature within Hatfield Forest where Iron Age artifacts have been discovered. Earthworks still visible in this area can be visited and are also thought to date back to the Iron Age.
Other places to visit in Hatfield Forest Park include the Grade-II listed Warren Cottage, Shell House which overlooks the man-made lake, and The Fishermans Shelter. If you’re feeling like a coffee or snack the on-site cafe is open between 9:00am and 4:00pm.
Hatfield Forest Park is unique as it has never been ploughed, meaning that the forest and wildlife are almost exactly as they were throughout history. Bird Spotting is a popular pastime for visitors, with everything from woodpeckers, chaffinches and nightingales to be found.
This National Nature Reserve is also a prime example of a managed landscape. Management techniques that can be observed today include pollarding, coppicing and grazing. You’ll also be able to find over 3,500 different species of wildlife and some trees that are over 1,000 years old.
If you’re lucky and quiet you might spot some of the deer that call Hatfield Forest home, and if you visit around dusk you can often see bats. Dogs are welcome at the park but must be kept in sight and under control at all times due to the livestock and wildlife in the area. There are also clearly signed dog-free zones.
Fishing and horse riding permits are also available for the park in either day or season passes, as is boat hire for the lake over summer. Check the National Trust website for the most up to date information on these permits. While you’re on the National Trust website download one of their spotters sheets so you can keep track of the flora and fauna you see around Hatfield Forest Park.
Looking for a parking space close to Hatfield Forest Park? YourParkingSpace can help. We provide a simple online platform for reserving a parking space in advance. Long-term and short-term off street parking options include driveways and lock-up garages, all within easy reach of Hatfield Forest Park.