Have you ever wondered how many forests exist in the bustling city of London? With its towering skyscrapers, busy streets, and iconic landmarks, it may seem like a concrete jungle with no space for nature.
However, London is home to several beautiful forests that provide a respite from the fast-paced city life. Let’s take a closer look at how many forests are in London.
The Royal Parks
London’s most well-known and beloved green spaces are the eight Royal Parks scattered throughout the city. These parks are owned by the British monarchy and have been open to the public since the mid-19th century. While not technically forests, they do contain significant areas of woodland.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park in London, covering an impressive 2,500 acres. It is home to more than 600 Red and Fallow deer that roam freely throughout the park’s grasslands and woodlands. Richmond Park has several walking trails that wind through its picturesque landscape.
Bushy Park
Bushy Park is another large Royal Park situated in southwest London. It covers over 1,000 acres and boasts numerous gardens, ponds, and woodlands. The park is famous for its majestic oak trees that date back to Tudor times.
City of London Corporation Woodlands
The City of London Corporation manages over 11,000 acres of green spaces in Greater London. A significant portion of this land includes woodlands that provide habitats for various wildlife species.
Epping Forest
Epping Forest is one of the largest areas of public open space in Greater London and covers approximately 6,000 acres. The forest consists of ancient woodland that dates back over 8,000 years and is home to several rare plant species.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is a popular green space in North London that covers 790 acres. While not technically a forest, it does have several wooded areas, including the ancient woodland known as The Pryors.
Other Forests in London
In addition to the Royal Parks and City of London Corporation Woodlands, there are several other forests in London worth mentioning.
Highgate Wood
Highgate Wood is a 28-acre ancient woodland located in North London. It is home to several bird species and has numerous walking trails.
Oxleas Wood
Oxleas Wood is one of the few remaining areas of ancient deciduous forest in Greater London. It covers over 300 acres and provides habitats for various wildlife species.
Conclusion
London may be known for its urban landscape, but it is also home to several beautiful forests and green spaces. From the large Royal Parks to the smaller woodlands scattered throughout the city, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.