Wokingham Borough Council is inviting residents to discover 13 nature parks right on their doorstep, this Love Parks Week. Covering an impressive 120 hectares, the parks are bursting with native plants and natural wildlife habitats, perfect for dog walkers, runners and families alike.
The parks have been created to support new and existing communities across the borough and can be found in; Arborfield, Crowthorne, Finchampstead, Shinfield, and, North and South Wokingham.
Hazebrouck Meadows, Arborfield, RG2 9LS
Running parallel to both Biggs Lane and Commonfield Lane, Hazebrouck Meadows is a hidden gem in the heart of Arborfield’s thriving community. Dedicated paths run through this nature park, making it popular with both dog walkers and runners. For those prepared to scale the hill, prepare yourself for breath-taking panoramic views of the local area.
Oakham Woods, Crowthorne, RG45 6UY
Oakham Woods is situated just a stones throw from the newly created Oakham Park development, which is very handy for local residents. This charming patch of mixed woodland features a 1.5km circular woodland walk, and benches for anyone who wishes to have a rest on route. Those travelling from further afield can also enjoy free parking.
Rooks Nest Wood, Finchampstead, RG40 4EU
Nestled in the heart of Finchampstead, Rooks Nest Wood is home to a rich array of habitat and even has a Local Wildlife Site title for its distinctive fen. This tranquil area has a lengthy farming history, however, almost 10 years ago the site was developed from farmland to a public greenspace, with 15,000 trees planted. There’s 3.2km of surfaced and unsurfaced footpaths to explore at this spot. Visitors can also enjoy free parking
New parks in Shinfield
Langley Mead, Hyde End Road, Shinfield, RG2 9EP
Visitors to Langley Mead can enjoy vast country meadows whilst completing a 2.8km circular walk. Situated along the banks of the River Loddon, this site is part of a wider project to turn back the clock and restore the wildflowers that once grew here. Guests should keep their eyes peeled for ragged robin, great burnet and yellow rattle. There’s also free parking, benches, bins and surfaced footpaths.
Mays Farm Meadows, Hyde End Lane, Ryeish Green, Shinfield, RG7 1EP
Explore wildflower meadows in the heart Ryeish Green. Spanning both sides of Hyde End Lane, visitors can expect a 2.3km round walk. Whilst the nearby free car park conveniently leads into the adjacent land, why not head of the beaten track and discover the fields on the other side of the road. For those looking to increase their steps, head south to the connecting Clares Green Field.
Clares Green Field, Ryeish Lane, Shinfield, RG7 1EN
Fancy completing a figure of eight walk? Look no further than Clares Green Field. Nestled in a corner Shinfield, this 1.4km route links onto adjoining Mays Farm Meadows and there are plans to create links to nearby Five Acres Field.
Five Acres Field, Clare’s Green Field, Shinfield, RG7 1EN
Five Acres Field has typical characteristics of medieval lowland Britain. Ancient hedgerows line the meadow and for those paying a visit in spring its likely bluebells will be in bloom. Native wildflowers were re-introduced to the site back in 2014 and two ponds were also created to promote bio-diversity.
New park in Winnersh:
Old Forest Road Meadows, off Old Forest Road, Winnersh, RG41 1LA
Perfectly positioned for those living in Emmbrook and Winnersh, residents can gain access to wildflower meadows through the pedestrian entrance off Old Forest Road. Walk along the river Emm Brook and enjoy the local wildlife.
New parks in Wokingham:
Keephatch Woods, Binfield Road, Wokingham, RG40 5PS
Looking for a charming woodland walk? Enjoy an invigorating ramble surrounded by Norway maple, ash and pedunculate oak in Keephatch Woods. The area also fetures open meadow space and is popular with local dog walkers.
Kentwood Meadows, Warren House Road, Wokingham, RG40 5RE
Kentwood Meadows offers a vast greenspace with surfaced paths and a pleasant 3km circular walk, which is ideal for dog walkers and runners alike. Visitors can also enjoy free parking.
Eldridge Country Park, Bingham Drive, Bell Foundry Lane, Wokingham, RG40 5QF
A newly developed tranquil nature reserve situated on the doorstep of Eldridge Park. Visitors can gently meander around the looping route. This site is particularly popular with local runners who can benefit from the well-surfaced paths.
Buckhurst Meadows, William Heelas Way, Wokingham, RG40 1GL
A pleasant meadow that is perfect for nature lovers year-round thanks to its surfaced paths. Visitors can relish wildflowers, native trees and ponds. There’s a treasure trove of habitats at this site including dragonflies and birds. In addition, locals will also find a community orchard, free parking, benches and bins.
“I am immensely proud of all the green spaces that our beautiful Borough has to offer, which is right on the doorstep for many of our residents to enjoy. There are so many hidden gems and treasures to explore and many of our nature reserves are encouraging and helping climate change and local wildlife to flourish.” said Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure.
