Thames Chase Forest Centre

The Thames Chase Forest Centre is home to the Thames Chase organisation, which was established in 1990 with the aim to regenerate the woodland areas of East London and South Essex. Their ambition is to increase trees in the area known as Thames Chase by 30%, by planting 5.5 million trees across 5,000 acres of land by the year 2030. The centre itself gives visitors the chance to learn about the project via interactive displays; school visits are often arranged, with the aim of educating children on environmental issues. The 17th century Grade II listed Broadfields Barn is made out of wood and well worth a peak, if only to marvel at how a farmer may have erected this magnificent building four centuries ago. If you turn up on the third Sunday of the month you’ll be able to peruse the Farmer’s Market. In terms of refreshments the centre’s café serves Fairtrade coffee and light snacks. You can also wander down the paths in the surrounding woodlands; children in particular will enjoy the carved wooden figures and hiding in the “Discovery Den”. The centre is open seven days a week, until 4pm in the winter and 5pm during summertime.