Haden Hill Park

I may be biased here because I've lived just down the road from this park all my life and have many a fond childhood memory attached to the place (sledging down the big field when the winters really knew how to snow and then stomping off home for hot pop by the fire, anyone?!) but it really is a wonderful place for a wander, whatever the time of year. Two lovely ponds with lots of ducks and swans and various dabbling beaky things, even your friendly neighborhood heron if you're lucky! Plenty of squirrels too (always a joy, no matter how many the years!) and birdies galore who'll happily serenade you, particularly the robins (my favourite little braggarts! <3) Listen out for Mr. Woodpecker too, if you visit at the right time of year!

Dogs are more than welcome, of course, and it's a very popular walkies destination with a lovely friendly-in-passing atmosphere from the regulars. Great place to wear the young 'uns out on their bikes and scooters and other such wheely things as well, and though I've not tried out the playground areas myself for many a year (sulky adult face) they always sound as though they're being thoroughly enjoyed!

Haden Hill House within the park is also well worth popping into, it's a lovely little museum showing you how former residents, the Haden Bests would have lived when it was their home and the park was just their garden. Lovely rooms and friendly staff. Little shop in there as well to have a nose at for the kids (you know, so long as they managed to go the day without pushing little sis off the swings or anything...)

Thoroughly recommended!