Gunpowder Woodland Trail

Starting point: Gunpowder Park car park, Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 3GP

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)