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Walk on the Wild Side Distance: 1.5 miles Terrain: surfaced pathway including towpath, several bridges with steep inclines and large cobbles, walk-around gates Starting point: Tottenham Marshes car park, Watermead Way, London N17 0XB See the route> At at glance information for this route Accessible Dog friendly Great for picnics Parking available Public transport closeby Route - cycling Route - running Route - walking Toilets available A circular route discovering the ‘wilds’ of Tottenham Marshes. The route heads north around the perimeter of Wild Marsh West before crossing the river and returning along the towpath. Directions Proceed north out of the car park (through the main entrance and exit) and cross over the main access road through the walk-around gate onto Marsh Triangle Join the new surfaced pathway and proceed onto Wild Marsh West , passing over the Flood Relief Channel, Pymmes Brook Continue along the path, crossing the new wildlife wetland habitat Bear to the left, continuing along the path, past the wildflower meadow habitat Continue past the entrance to Marigold Road on the left, proceeding to the northern perimeter of the marsh Follow the pathway to the right, passing the Leeside entrance and proceed towards the river Proceed over Chalk Bridge, following the pathway down onto the towpath Turn left and proceed south along the river to Stonebridge Lock Cross the river at the lock, the Stonebridge Lock Waterside Community Centre is on your right Proceed west along the main access road and turn left into the car par Toilets Stonebridge Lock Community Centre Things to note Public transport links: The closest station is Northumberland Park Buses run along Watermead Way Plan your journey with Transport for London There are currently no car parking charges at Tottenham Marshes car park The site is within the Ultra Low Emissions Zone Previous Next

Grasshopper Walk Distance: 0.5 miles Terrain: all surfaced pathways and several bridges Starting point: River Lee Country Park, Pindar car park, Windmill Lane, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire EN8 9AJ Download route narrative > At at glance information for this route Accessible Dog friendly Parking available Public transport closeby Route - running Route - walking A circular route through Turnershill and Thistly Marshes. Experience the wonderful sights and sounds of crickets and grasshoppers during the summer months. Particularly suitable for disabled people and pushchairs. Directions From the centre of the car park, proceed south along the surfaced path Turn left at the end and proceed south, alongside the Small River Lee, passing through Turnershill Marsh At the small angler’s car park, take the right hand path and continue passed a wooden sculptured seat (The Shrine ) Cross over a small wooden bridge, turning to the right and continue along the pathway bearing right. Proceed along the path, keeping Bowyers Water on your left At the next junction, at the north of the lake, bear to the right. (The Bowyers Orchid Meadow is a short detour from the route - turn left at the junction and the entrance to the Orchid Meadow boardwalk is on the left) Continue north, along the pathway, passing through Thistly Marsh and the Giant's Chair on your right Proceed over the metal bridge to the right, crossing the Small River Lee and continue Turn left onto the pathway, retracing your steps north, turning right along the path, back to the car park Things to note Public transport links: The closest station is Cheshunt Buses run to Cheshunt station Car parking charges apply at Pindar car park Previous Next

Road to Gold Distance: 3.5 miles Terrain: predominately tarmac with some gravel paths. The route requires you to use the cycle lane of the pavement at Lea Bridge Road before re-entering the park Starting point: Lee Valley VeloPark, Abercrombie Road, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3AB Total elevation gain : 56ft Cycling time *: 21 minutes Calories burnt *: around 130 calories Download route map > GPX route file available > At at glance information for this route Dog friendly Great for picnics Parking available Public transport closeby Refreshments available Route - cycling Route - running Route - walking Toilets available This six mile route starts at the stunning Lee Valley VeloPark then heads north through taking in the local marshes. This route will help you discover the important role the filter beds played in London’s history. Along the route you’ll find… Lee Valley VeloPark Built for the London 2012 games and host venue for the track and BMX events this iconic building now offers visitors the chance to enjoy four cycling disciplines, track, road, BMX and mountain biking all in one location. Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre Just before you cross over the bridge from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park you’ll see the fantastic union jack hockey pitch of Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre. Used during London 2012 for the Paralympic tennis events and subsequently remodelled to include two water-based hockey pitches as well as indoor and outdoor tennis courts. Eton Manor The powerful poem ‘Eton Manor’ by Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy adorns one of the external walls at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, bringing the rich history of this site to life. This unique sporting venue also houses a war memorial that serves as a tribute to Eton Manor Club members who fought and died in the First and Second World Wars. The memorial was restored as part of the work on the venue. Hackney Marshes These marshes are steeped in history and have seen many developments over the years leaving us with the areas you can see today. The north and south marshes are renowned as the home of Sunday league football and boast 82 football, rugby and cricket pitches. The area is owned and run by London Borough of Hackney. Middlesex Filter Beds This once industrial area used to house filter beds that provided clean water for London. Following an outbreak of cholera in 1852 these filter beds, along with a sister set at the WaterWorks Centre were built to ensure that Londoners had access to clean water to help with the prevention of disease. The filter beds were in use up until 1969 when they were closed. Since their closure they have been turned into a wildlife haven offering a thriving mix of open water, reedbeds and wet woodland habitats. It’s a great area to spot amphibians, dragonfly and damselfly plus a whole host of different species of bird. Alternative starting points: Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre – E20 3AD sat navs, please use E10 5SQ Lee Valley Ice Centre Toilets: Lee Valley VeloPark Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre Lee Valley Ice Centre Refreshments: Lee Valley VeloPark Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre (vending machine) Lee Valley Ice Centre Things to note Public transport links: There are numerous train stations close to the starting points of this route The area well served by the local bus network Plan your journey with Transport for London Car parking charges apply at the car parks listed on this route The site is within the Ultra Low Emissions Zon You can ride these routes on any type of bike but the best ones to use would be either a mountain or hybrid bike. Please cycle responsibly in the park, for more information check our cyclists code of conduct. * Cycling time and calories burnt are calculated using a cycling speed of 10mph and a weight of 10 stone Previous Next

< Back to What's On Family Nature Discovery at Walthamstow Wetlands Join us for a fun filled afternoon to learn about the habitats and wildlife at Walthamstow Wetlands. Date: 26 May Time: 13:00 - 15:00 FREE Walthamstow Wetlands Location: Book your space > Join us this holiday to explore different habitats and discover the nature that lives at Walthamstow Wetlands.  Woodlice, spiders, worms and toads are just a selection of the amazing animals that you might find! Activities will include using nets to look at animals found in the pond and looking under logs to see what minibeasts we can find. Suitable for all ages. Meet by the Outdoor Classroom Area beside the Engine House. Come anytime between 1-3pm. The session will be led by a member of our Learning & Engagement team. Sessions are aimed at children of all ages and parents/carers together. All children must be accompanied throughout the session by a responsible adult. No need to book, just drop in on the day. This is a free event, but donations are welcome. All profits are invested into London Wildlife Trust’s conservation and education work and the care of its nature reserves. Previous Next

< Back to What's On Runthrough Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park September Join us at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 10k and 5k races Date: 19 September Time: 09:00 From £30 Lee Valley VeloPark Location: Book your space > Come and run a chip timed 5k or 10k through the incredible grounds of the North Park in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This course is not only flat and fast, but also inspiring. The RunThrough Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 5k & 10k event is a great opportunity for a quick time and a fun morning out with a unique themed medal waiting for you at the finish! Previous Next

< Back to What's On Lifewalk - Lee Valley Ice Centre Join our team for these great walks to improve you health and wellbeing Date: 22 April Time: 11:00 FREE Lee Valley Ice Centre Location: Email the team > Routes range from 1.5 miles to 3 miles in length. Each walk includes a designated front and back leader, enabling participants to walk at their preferred pace. While we encourage a pace that is slightly brisker than your usual walking speed, participants are welcome to proceed at their comfort level. These walks are social and support a healthy, active lifestyle. Cost: FREE On the day: a register will be taken at the start of each walk. Please arrive a few minutes early to ensure no delays. Parking at Lee Valley Ice Centre is free and you’ll need to input your car registration upon arrival. Please check our website for all other open space To sign up and receive the monthly schedule please email activation@leevalleypark.org.uk Previous Next

< Back to What's On Wings For Life World Run London Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park The Wings for Life World Run is a truly unique and global race for both runners and wheelchair participants. Date: 10 May Time: 12:00 From £30 Lee Valley VeloPark Location: Book your space > The Wings for Life World Run is a truly unique and global race for both runners and wheelchair participants. Instead of a finish line, competitors race side by side to keep ahead of the Virtual Catcher Car. Now on May 10, 2026 Wings for Life World Run participants in United Kingdom can also run together in London! Meet up with your friends, download the Wings for Life World Run App and join all the other people running until the Virtual Catcher Car catches you of course. The race starts at exactly 12:00:00 PM. The Virtual Catcher Car takes off 30 minutes after the start at 14 km/h and steadily increases its speed until the last athletes have been caught. 100% of all donations and the entry fees go directly into spinal cord research projects. Previous Next

< Back to What's On Mind in West Essex: Walk & Talk at Waltham Abbey Gardens Join Mind every week for this great Walk and Talk session Date: 8 April Time: 10:00 FREE Waltham Abbey Gardens Location: See more > Looking for a friendly way to connect with others, enjoy nature, and get some gentle exercise? Mind in West Essex invites you to join our Walk & Talk sessions held every Wednesday at 10:00 in the beautiful Waltham Abbey Gardens. This weekly community event offers the perfect opportunity to take a gentle stroll among the stunning gardens while engaging in friendly conversation with others. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, enjoy fresh air, or simply take a mindful break from your week, Walk & Talk is here for you. Event Details : When: Every Wednesday Time : 10:00 Where : Waltham Abbey Gardens – meeting point: Waltham Abbey Church, Highbridge Street, EN9 1DG Who : Everyone is welcome – no booking needed! Why join? Relax and unwind with a scenic walk Meet new people from your local community Boost your wellbeing through light exercise and conversation So, lace up your walking shoes and come along – we’d love to see you there! Organised by Mind in West Essex in partnership with Kinder Essex. Previous Next

< Back to What's On Cyclist Track Day Get hands-on experience riding and comparing the latest road bikes at the home of the London Olympics. Date: 9 - 10 May Time: 10:00 From £18 Lee Valley VeloPark Location: Book your space > Cyclist Track Days give you the chance to test and compare all the latest road bikes, side by side, on a purpose-built, traffic-free cycling circuit. You’ll have a full day to ride as many bikes as you like, with brand representatives on hand to answer questions and offer advice. All you need to do is show up with your own pedals, shoes and helmet. This year’s Track Day sold out, and for 2026 we’re extending the event to a full weekend with even more of the very best bike brands for you to try. Lunch and coffee will be available to buy on site, or included with your ticket, so you can refuel and keep riding throughout the day. In 2025, exhibitors included brands such as Specialized, ENVE, Giant, Factor, Trek, Cannondale, Scott, Wilier and many more. The full list of 2026 brands will be announced soon. Previous Next

Gunpowder Woodland Trail Distance: 1.75 miles Terrain: surfaced pathways including a wooden boardwalk Starting point: Gunpowder Park car park, Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 3GP Download route narrative > At at glance information for this route Accessible Dog friendly Great for picnics Parking available Route - cycling Route - running Route - walking Toilets available A circular route exploring the wet woodland and wildlife of Gunpowder Park. The route heads west along the high path before turning south through the woodland boardwalk and returning along Sewardstone Road. Directions Enter Gunpowder Park entrance via the entrance to the left of the Field Station . Proceed on the surfaced pathway, continuing up and over the hill. (The Meridian viewpoint is a short detour from the route. Turn left at the top of the hill and follow the pathway) At the T-junction turn left, proceeding along the path, alongside the bridleway Turn left at the next junction and then right towards the wet woodland area, Osier Marsh Continue along the boardwalk through the wet woodland, passing a bird hide and seasonal pond on your right At the end of boardwalk bear to the left (a metal bird screen and seasonal pool is a short diversion to the right) and continue along the pathway Turn right at the T-junction and follow the path, passing the Hazel, Blackthorn and Elderberry shrubs Pass through the bollards on the perimeter of the site and turn left onto Sewardstone Road Follow the pavement up and over the hill Turn left through a small metal gate, re-entering Gunpowder Park. Follow the hard surfaced path, which leads back to the Field Station. (The Spiral Mound viewpoint is a short detour from the route. Turn right, in front of the Field Station) Toilets Gunpowder Park Field Station Things to note Public transport links to the starting point are limited Car parking charges apply at Gunpowder Park car park The site is outside the Ultra Low Emissions Zone but is very close to it Previous Next

< Back to What's On Buzz Map: Insect DNA Mapping Join London Wildlife Trust's team in a citizen science project discovering the diversity of insects from across the UK. Date: 16 April FREE Walthamstow Wetlands Location: Book your space > You’ll learn about setting up the Malaise trap, supporting sample collection, processing and identification, as well as helping us with activities to engage visitors with the project and insect conservation. This citizen science project is perfect for anyone who wants to be part of understanding and safeguarding our local insect populations, and especially for anyone looking to learn more about careers in biodiversity science, conservation, or develop skills in science engagement and education. We will provide training and support around sample processing and identification- no experience necessary ! This event is aimed at adults 18+ but can be inclusive to young people 11+, who must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Previous Next

< Back to What's On Guided walk: birds of River Lee Country Park (16 April) Guided walk led by expert birders Date: 16 April Time: 13:00 FREE Wildlife Discovery Centre, Fishers Green Location: Book your space > Join one of our free walks led by an experienced birding expert to discover the birds and other wildlife of River Lee Country Park, part of the 10,000 acre Lee Valley Regional Park. This walk is for everyone, from the novice to expert birdwatchers! Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the park looking at the wildlife and discover more about the wonderful habitat that this park offers. Birds you may see during the winter months include Nightingales, Kingfishers, Cuckoos, Peregrines and Common Terns. The walk will start and end at the Wildlife Discovery Centre in Fishers Green and last approximately 90 minutes - on return to the centre you'll have a chance to warm up with a hot drink. Advance booking is required as there is a maximum group size of 12. Please make sure you wear approprite footwear and clothing and if you have any binoculars please bring them along. Previous Next