The Thames Chase Forest Centre

It’s what it says on the tin – the Forest Centre is the hub of the Forest at the geographical heart of Thames Chase. It offers loads of features and bags of room to provide more than enough activity for a full family day out. There are good walks, with no roads to cross, connecting open areas to relaxing woodland, especially to the south of the site, where the plantings are starting to take on the appearance of mature woodland. There are also ponds, meadows and even an orchard planted with traditional Essex apple and pear varieties. Scattered around the site are fun environmental play sculptures too, most notably the ‘Millionth Tree’ – both a landmark and a watch-tower. Then there is the Discovery Den where children can freely play and learn more about nature as they do so, plus the Centre’s play area. There’s also an education room for environmental studies - this is an important activity for schools and families alike.