Parndon Wood Nature Reserve

About

Recorded as a woodland for over 900 years, Parndon Wood is composed of a canopy of oak with coppiced hornbeam growing beneath.

The reserve is a Special Site for Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its variety of flora and has received a Green Flag Award, which recognises the best parks in the country, for the last 11 years.

Visitors can follow the 1.5km trail, or simply explore the wood’s many tracks and paths. There are three observation hides, where you can wait quietly for a glimpse of a green woodpecker or Muntjac deer.

In the accessible conservation centre, learn about the local wildlife from the classroom full of woodland specimens, taxidermy and information posters.

Children can hire bug hunting kits, have fun in the den building area, hire binoculars and complete seasonal spotter sheets.

During school holidays, there are plenty of activity sessions for young people.

Parndon Wood has informal visits by schools, which offer demonstrations of woodland crafts, painting and woodcarving, supporting national curriculum studies.

Dogs are welcome in the café courtyard but must be kept on a lead at all times. Dogs are not allowed onto the woodland trail.

Events

The wood and conservation centre are very popular for birthday parties. Packages are available and can be tailored to individual needs to include a range of activities for all occasions.

The 6mx9m room in the Conservation Centre is available for private hire and is regularly used for environmental talks and other events.

You can look at the ECCO website for more information on events.

Volunteer

There are volunteering opportunities to help maintain the woodland. You can look at our volunteering page for more information.