Enfield A Nature Positive Place To Visit From Central London
Enfield, located in north London, boasts a rich history and a wealth of parks and green spaces, making it an ideal place to explore and enjoy the outdoors, with over 120 parks and open spaces managed by the council1. It is easily reached from Central London. We have various options for you towards the end of this article. Visiting Enfield will give you a nature positive flavour on your trip to London. It will take you off the typical tourist trail.
The borough’s natural heritage is characterised by its diverse range of habitats, including woodland, grassland, and wetlands, and is home to important populations of nationally and internationally scarce plant and animal species2.
As a nature-friendly borough, Enfield is committed to conserving and enhancing its biodiversity, with the London Borough of Enfield supporting a range of biodiversity assets, including 1 Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), 1 Local Nature Reserve (LNR), and 41 Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)3.
Discover Enfield With Local Expert Sangeeta Waldron In This Charming, Uplifting 19-Minute Interview
In a world where urban landscapes often overshadow green spaces, Enfield stands out as a beacon of balance and hope. This north London borough is not just a place where people live—it’s a thriving example of how communities can coexist with nature.
This interview with the brilliant Sangeeta Waldron, dives into how Enfield is transforming its green spaces, fostering biodiversity, and creating community hubs that bring people closer to nature.
From rewilding initiatives to innovative urban planning, Enfield’s journey shows us how local action can make a global impact. Whether it’s planting more trees, enhancing parks, or encouraging sustainable practices, the people of Enfield are making sure their borough thrives for generations to come.
About Sangeeta Waldron
Sangeeta is an award-winning public relations professional. Discover more by visiting her company’s website, Serendipity PR.
She is also a ground-breaking author. Discover her third book, What Will Your Legacy Be:
A Natural Haven in North London
Enfield’s natural heritage is significant, with a range of habitats and species, making it an ideal location for parks and attractions that promote biodiversity4. The borough’s commitment to protecting and enhancing its natural environment is evident in its various environmental initiatives, including the creation of community gardens and allotments where residents can grow their own food and connect with nature4.
The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognises the importance of the borough’s natural heritage, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation5. This plan aims to conserve and enhance the borough’s biodiversity, providing a framework for action to protect and enhance the natural environment. Enfield’s natural heritage is also recognized through various environmental awards and recognition, highlighting the borough’s commitment to protecting and enhancing its natural environment6.
Geographical Location and Overview
Enfield’s geographical location provides a unique range of habitats and species, including woodland, grassland, and wetlands4. The borough is home to the Lee Valley Regional Park, which offers a range of attractions and activities for residents and visitors, including schools and educational programs4.
The Enfield Chase Landscape Restoration Project has planted 140,000 trees in the last four years, and plans to create 20 hectares of new woodland at Rectory Farm to capture more carbon emissions4. This project is a testament to Enfield’s commitment to protecting and enhancing its natural environment, and provides a valuable resource for residents, schools, and attractions6.
The Green Heart of Enfield
Enfield’s green heart is characterized by its parks and open spaces, providing a unique range of habitats and species7. The borough’s parks and green spaces are an essential part of its natural heritage, offering a range of benefits for both people and wildlife. With over 120 parks and green spaces, Enfield’s green heart is a haven for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life7.
The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognises the importance of the borough’s parks and open spaces, aiming to conserve and enhance the borough’s biodiversity7. This plan provides a framework for action to protect and enhance the natural environment, ensuring that Enfield’s green heart remains a thriving and vibrant part of the community. As Enfield continues to grow and develop, it is essential to balance property development with the need to preserve and protect the borough’s natural heritage.
Fortunately, Enfield’s green heart is accessible through various transport links, making it easy to explore and enjoy the outdoors7. Whether by bike, on foot, or by public transport, residents and visitors can easily connect with nature and experience the beauty of Enfield’s parks and green spaces. By prioritizing sustainable transport options and protecting the borough’s natural heritage, Enfield can become an even greener and more desirable place to live and visit.
Notable Parks and Nature Reserves
Enfield boasts a range of notable parks and nature reserves, each with its unique character and history, making them a vital part of the borough’s natural heritage8. These areas not only provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of shopping centers but also serve as educational hubs, offering insights into the local flora and fauna.
The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognises the importance of these parks and nature reserves, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation9. Among these, Trent Country Park and Forty Hall Estate are particularly noteworthy for their diverse landscapes and historical attractions, attracting visitors from across the region8.
Trent Country Park
Trent Country Park, spanning an impressive 413 acres, is a significant natural area for visitors, offering a blend of history and natural beauty8. Its size and diversity make it an essential component of Enfield’s natural heritage, providing habitats for a wide range of species.
Forty Hall Estate
Forty Hall Estate, with its 273 acres, features diverse landscapes and historical attractions, making it an educational destination for those interested in history and the environment8. The estate’s unique blend of natural and man-made features contributes to the borough’s rich biodiversity.
These parks and nature reserves, steeped in history and natural beauty, are not just recreational spaces but also vital components of Enfield’s environmental conservation efforts, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the borough’s green spaces9.
Wildlife and Biodiversity in Enfield
Enfield is renowned for its rich wildlife and biodiversity, with a range of habitats and species that make it an ideal location for nature lovers. The borough’s natural heritage is characterized by its diverse range of habitats, including woodland, grassland, and wetlands, which support a wide variety of plants and animals10. The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognizes the importance of the borough’s wildlife and biodiversity, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation.
The area is home to numerous species of birds, including egrets, kingfishers, and purple emperor butterflies, which can be found in the various parks and nature reserves throughout the borough11. The woodland of Whitewebbs Park, for example, has diverse tree species, including oak and hornbeam, providing habitats for insects, birds, and bats11. Additionally, the wetland area south of the King and Tinker pub in Whitewebbs Park is an ideal habitat for insects and amphibians due to rotting timber and pools of water11.
Conservation efforts are also underway to protect and enhance the borough’s biodiversity, including the reintroduction of beavers to London for the first time in over 400 years12. This project, launched by Enfield Council and Capel Manor College, aims to introduce two beavers into a specially designed enclosure within the grounds of Forty Hall Farm in Enfield12. The presence of beavers is expected to create sponge-like wetland habitats that enable other forms of wildlife to flourish, supporting the rich biodiversity of Enfield12.
Overall, Enfield’s wildlife and biodiversity are a valuable asset to the borough, providing numerous benefits for both the environment and the community. By supporting conservation efforts and protecting the natural habitats of the area, we can help to preserve the rich biodiversity of Enfield for future generations10.
Sustainable Initiatives and Environmental Projects
Enfield, located in north London, has a rich history of environmental conservation and sustainability. The borough’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage is evident in its various sustainable initiatives and environmental projects. These efforts aim to conserve and enhance the local biodiversity, providing a framework for action to protect and enhance the natural environment13.
The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognizes the importance of the borough’s sustainable initiatives and environmental projects, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation13. The plan aims to support and enhance these initiatives and projects, providing a range of benefits for both people and wildlife. Enfield’s sustainable initiatives and environmental projects are also supported by various conservation efforts, including the Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan, which includes 27 key objectives to maximize biodiversity in the borough13.
Tree Planting Programmes
Tree planting programs are an essential part of Enfield’s sustainable initiatives, helping to reduce carbon emissions and promote a healthier environment. The borough’s tree planting programs have been successful in creating new green spaces, which not only benefit the environment but also provide a peaceful escape for residents14.
Community Gardens
Community gardens are another vital aspect of Enfield’s sustainable initiatives, providing a space for residents to come together and grow their own fruits and vegetables. These gardens not only promote sustainable living but also help to build stronger, more connected communities14.
Enfield’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation is a testament to the borough’s rich history and its dedication to protecting its natural heritage for future generations13. By supporting and enhancing its sustainable initiatives and environmental projects, Enfield continues to be a leader in north London’s environmental conservation efforts14.
Exploring Enfield’s Waterways
Enfield’s waterways offer a unique range of habitats and species, making them an essential part of the borough’s natural heritage. The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognizes the importance of the borough’s waterways, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation15. These waterways provide opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking and cycling, and are accessible through various transport links.
The New River Path and River Lee Navigation are two of the most notable waterways in Enfield, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Visitors can explore these waterways and enjoy the surrounding parks and attractions, such as Trent Country Park, which covers over 400 acres of woodland, rolling meadows, and enchanting views15. The restoration of London’s waterways, including the River Lee Navigation, has led to improved biodiversity and increased opportunities for volunteering and community engagement16.
Waterway Restoration Projects
Enfield Council’s watercourse team has created the Firs Farm Wetlands, which have reduced flood risk significantly for thousands of people in the area16. The restoration of London’s waterways has also led to the removal of obstacles, making it easier for fish to commute and improving the overall health of the waterways16. These projects demonstrate the importance of preserving and enhancing Enfield’s waterways, which are a vital part of the borough’s natural heritage and offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement.
Green Transport and Access
Enfield’s green transport options, including cycling and walking routes, provide a unique range of benefits for both people and wildlife, and are an essential part of the borough’s natural heritage17. The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognizes the importance of the borough’s green transport options, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation. To promote sustainable travel, the Enfield Transport Plan aims to transform transport and mobility in Enfield over a period of 23 years, making active travel the natural choice for trips less than 2km17.
Public transport accounts for 20% of travel in Enfield, with travelling by bus accounting for 14% of journeys made by Enfield residents18. However, bus wait times have increased over the past two years due to congestion18. To address this, improvements to the A406 and commuter rail line were popular investments for transport18. Enfield’s public transport system is not effectively inducing a modal shift away from private motor vehicles, with a high car ownership rate of 93%19.
The need for increased investment in public transport to accommodate population and employment growth in the next 15 years is essential18. The West Anglia Mainline Enhancement project will bring increased train frequencies to the eastern part of North East Enfield19. The Northern Gateway Access Package (NGAP) aims to coordinate transport improvements across North East Enfield to promote sustainable means of travel, including restraint measures on traffic growth, upgrading the highway network, and improving pedestrian and cycle infrastructure19. By promoting green transport options and investing in public transport, Enfield can reduce its reliance on private vehicles and create a more sustainable transport system, making it easier for residents to access shopping centers and other amenities while reducing its impact on the environment17.
As Enfield continues to grow and develop, it is essential to prioritize green transport options and invest in public transport to create a more sustainable and accessible transport system, which will have a positive impact on the environment and the community, and will make transport more efficient and environmentally friendly17.
Community Engagement in Nature Conservation
The Enfield community plays a vital role in nature conservation, with various initiatives and programs in place to protect and enhance the borough’s biodiversity. The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan recognizes the importance of community engagement, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation20. This plan aims to support and enhance these initiatives, providing a range of benefits for both people and wildlife.
Local environmental groups and educational programs are essential in promoting community engagement in nature conservation. These initiatives aim to conserve and enhance the borough’s biodiversity, providing a framework for action to protect and enhance the natural environment21. The Enfield Council has revised its approaches to community engagement to ensure effective implementation, aligned with national guidance and best practices22.
Local Environmental Groups
Enfield has a range of local environmental groups, which work together to conserve and enhance the borough’s biodiversity. These groups organize various events and activities, such as tree planting, community gardening, and wildlife conservation20.
Volunteer Opportunities
There are many volunteer opportunities available in Enfield, allowing community members to get involved in nature conservation efforts. These opportunities include participating in conservation projects, helping with educational programs, and supporting local environmental groups21.
In Enfield, community engagement in nature conservation is crucial for protecting and enhancing the borough’s biodiversity. The Enfield community is committed to working together to conserve and enhance the natural environment, providing a range of benefits for both people and wildlife22.
Future Environmental Plans
Enfield, located in north London, has a rich history of environmental conservation efforts. The borough’s future environmental plans, including the Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan, aim to conserve and enhance the local biodiversity23. This plan recognizes the importance of protecting and enhancing the natural environment, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation23.
The Enfield Biodiversity Action Plan is a key component of the borough’s environmental strategy, supporting and enhancing the local ecosystem24. The plan aims to provide a range of benefits for both people and wildlife, promoting a sustainable future for the community. By investing in energy-efficient housing and reducing carbon emissions, Enfield is taking significant steps towards becoming a carbon neutral borough by 204024.
As Enfield continues to grow and develop, its history and commitment to environmental conservation will remain a vital part of its identity. The borough’s future environmental plans will play a crucial role in shaping its north London landscape, ensuring a sustainable and thriving community for generations to come24. By working together, Enfield can protect its natural heritage and create a better future for all its residents.
Enfield’s environmental plans are a testament to the borough’s dedication to conservation and sustainability. By prioritizing the protection of its natural environment, Enfield is setting an example for other communities to follow24.
Conclusion: Enfield’s Green Legacy and Future
Enfield has a rich25 green legacy and a bright future, with a range of initiatives and projects to conserve and enhance its natural heritage. The borough’s25 Biodiversity Action Plan highlights the importance of Enfield’s25 green legacy and future, with over 40 sites of importance for nature conservation. This comprehensive plan aims to protect and enhance the borough’s diverse habitats, including woodland, grassland, and wetlands26.
Enfield’s27 Local Plan, set to guide the development, housing, and environment of the borough until 2041, is a testament to the council’s commitment to sustainable growth. While there have been concerns raised about the lack of effective engagement with residents on the plan27, some councillors have been noted for their proactive efforts to involve the community in discussions about the local plan and environmental issues27.
As Enfield continues to evolve, its green legacy and future remain a priority, with a focus on addressing flood risks26, enhancing flood defence infrastructure, and promoting sustainable drainage systems26. The borough’s natural assets, from its parks and nature reserves to its waterways, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping Enfield’s environmental landscape for generations to come.
Traveling to Enfield from Central London is straightforward and can be done via multiple modes of transportation, depending on your preferences. Here are the options:
1. Train (Fastest Option)
Enfield is well-connected by train from several central London stations. Key routes include:
- Liverpool Street Station:
- Take a train operated by Greater Anglia to Enfield Town or Southbury.
- Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Moorgate Station:
- Take a train operated by Great Northern to Enfield Chase.
- Travel Time: 25–35 minutes.
Tip: Use a contactless payment card or an Oyster card for seamless travel.
2. London Underground + Bus
Enfield is not directly served by the Tube, but you can combine the Underground with buses:
Piccadilly Line:
- Take the Tube to Arnos Grove Station.
- From Arnos Grove, take a bus (e.g., 121 or 307) to Enfield.
Victoria Line:
- Take the Tube to Seven Sisters Station.
- From there, switch to an Overground train to Enfield Town.
3. Bus Only (Cheapest Option)
Several bus routes run between Central London and Enfield. However, this option is slower:
- Route 29 to Wood Green, then transfer to bus 121, 231, or 307 to Enfield.
- Alternatively, route 279 runs from Tottenham Hale to Enfield.
Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours.
4. Driving or Taxi
If you prefer to drive:
- Enfield is about 10–12 miles north of Central London.
- Use the A10 (Great Cambridge Road) or the North Circular (A406) for the fastest routes.
- Travel Time: 30–50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Parking: Check for available parking in advance, as restrictions may apply in some areas.
Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for convenience.
5. Cycling
For a more eco-friendly option:
- Use cycle routes like the CS1 (Cycle Superhighway) from Central London toward Tottenham, then follow local routes to Enfield.
- Travel Time: Around 1 hour, depending on your starting point.
Tips:
- Apps: Use apps like Citymapper, Google Maps, or TfL Go for live updates and travel planning.
- Peak Hours: Avoid traveling during peak times (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM) for a more comfortable journey.
FAQ
What makes Enfield a nature-friendly borough in north London?
What are the notable parks and nature reserves in Enfield?
How diverse is the wildlife and biodiversity in Enfield?
What sustainable initiatives and environmental projects are being undertaken in Enfield?
How can residents and visitors explore Enfield’s waterways?
What green transport options are available in Enfield?
How does the local community engage with nature conservation in Enfield?
What are Enfield’s future environmental plans?
Source Links
- Enfield gets low marks for parks in London-wide report – https://enfielddispatch.co.uk/enfield-gets-low-marks-for-parks-in-london-wide-report/
- PDF – https://www.enfield.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/5392/planning-application-information-biodiversity-action-plan.pdf
- PDF – https://www.enfield.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/11914/Review-of-Sites-of-Importance-for-Nature-Conservation-Report-2020-Planning.pdf
- Enfield Where Nature Meets Community With Sangeeta Waldron – https://constructive-voices.com/enfield-where-nature-meets-community-sangeeta-waldron/
- Plans for London’s largest nature haven have been revealed – https://www.timeout.com/london/news/plans-for-londons-largest-nature-haven-have-been-revealed-070224
- Conservationists spearhead massive ‘nature haven’ with community input: ‘The sky’s the limit’ – https://www.thecooldown.com/outdoors/enfield-chase-landscape-restoration-project-london-acre/
- Enfield’s plan to become the green heart of London and increase opportunities for all – https://www.enfield.gov.uk/news-and-events/2021/june-2021/enfields-plan-to-become-the-green-heart-of-london-and-increase-opportunities-for-all
- Best Parks and Green Spaces in Enfield to Visit – https://www.manandvan-enfield.co.uk/best-parks-and-green-spaces-in-enfield/
- Microsoft Word – POCD_04_07_11Adopted.doc – https://www.enfield-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/813/Parks-Recreation-and-Open-Space-PDF
- Nature in Trent Park – Friends of Trent Country Park – https://friendsoftrentcountrypark.org.uk/about-trent-park/nature-in-trent-park/
- Biodiversity – Whitewebbs Park Enfield – https://whitewebbspark.org.uk/biodiversity/
- Beavers are back at Enfield! – https://beavertrust.org/beavers-are-back-at-enfield/
- PDF – https://governance.enfield.gov.uk/documents/s36634/4Enfield 2020 Sustainability Programme final.pdf
- Enfield: A Hidden Gem of Beauty, Sustainability, and Innovation – Constructive Voices – https://constructive-voices.com/enfield-a-hidden-gem-of-beauty-sustainability-and-innovation/
- Arnos Park to Trent Country Park: Exploring Enfield’s Hidden Treasures – https://londonwlogger.com/2020/02/01/arnos-park-to-trent-country-park/
- A new life for London’s lost rivers – https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20230514-a-new-life-for-londons-lost-rivers
- Transport planning and policy – https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/roads-and-transport/transport-planning-and-policy
- PDF – https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/commonplace-customer-files/enfieldlocalplan/Enfield new Local Plan 2036 CHP 10.pdf
- Enfield Council: 4 Movement – https://www.planvu.co.uk/enfield/written/neeaap/cpt4.php
- Community-engaged research gets boost from new grants | Cornell Chronicle – https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2024/04/community-engaged-research-gets-boost-new-grants
- Conservation Commission | Enfield, CT – https://www.enfield-ct.gov/734/Conservation-Commission
- Statement of Community Involvement – https://www.enfield.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/38025/Statement-of-Community-Involvement-Revised-2023-Final-Planning.pdf
- The Plan of Conservation & Development – https://enfield-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/18235
- Climate action – https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/environment/climate-action
- PowerPoint Presentation – https://www.enfield-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14327
- 8 Core Policies for Environmental Protection and Green Infrastructure – https://www.planvu.co.uk/enfield/written/cs/cpt8.php
- ‘Unfair, unreasonable and undemocratic’: Council accused of reneging on local plan consultation promise – https://www.pgweb.uk/planning-all-subjects/planning-and-development-overview/3852-council-accused-of-reneging-on-local-plan-consultation-promise
