Harefield: Hillingdon Trail, Nature and History

Harefield combines distinctive paths through woodland and countryside with nature observation and an unusually diverse culture of remembrance. This means that different visitor interests can be pursued side by side during your stay: the Harefield Locks section of the Hillingdon Trail, Dews Farm Sandpits, protected nature at Broadwater Lake, and several historic sites in the village.

Hillingdon Trail and Harefield Locks

The Harefield Locks section of the Hillingdon Trail begins at Harefield Church and leads through Old Park Wood. From Harefield Church to Springwell Lock, this section is 5 miles long. Jacobean almshouses are also mentioned as points of interest along the route. Between two sections of Old Park Wood, bluebells, coralroot and goldilocks grow in abundance in spring. The route therefore combines specific trail destinations with a seasonal impression of the landscape.

Another way to experience the area is the guided walk “Led Walk: Harefield”. It follows two or three different routes along the Grand Union Canal and past Black Jack's Lock. The walk therefore differs from the described section of the Hillingdon Trail through its guided format and the choice between several routes.

Dews Farm Sandpits and Broadwater Lake

Dews Farm Sandpits is located on Harvil Road in Harefield; the entrance is also there. The area was once a mineral quarry and was subsequently reclaimed by nature. Today, Dews Farm Sandpits combines habitats of acidic grassland and young woodland. In summer, the site is characterised by flowers and butterflies. The nature trail through the area includes some steps, which is a specific feature to consider when choosing this excursion destination.

Dews Farm Sandpits is classified as a Site of Borough Importance and lies within the Metropolitan Green Belt. Another natural area in Harefield is Broadwater Lake. The lake is registered as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its wildlife. The animals mentioned there include waterfowl, otters, reptiles, amphibians and numerous insect species.

Village, Monuments and Culture of Remembrance

The Church of St Mary in Harefield is a Grade I listed building. Harefield Village Green is located within the Harefield Village Conservation Area, the village's designated conservation area. The Harefield War Memorial stands at the south-eastern corner of the Village Green. It takes the form of a 10-metre-high obelisk and commemorates the village residents who fell in the First World War.

The Australian War Memorial offers another historical perspective. It forms the centrepiece of the military cemetery for Australian soldiers who died from their wounds during the First World War while patients at Harefield Place hospital. The entrance arch to Harefield Australian Military Cemetery probably dates from around 1921 and is made of Portland stone.

Harefield also has a dedicated place for an active pursuit: The Sharks offers beginner sessions. No prior experience is required, and the necessary equipment is provided.

More London Destination Pages

If you would like to compare Harefield with other destinations, you can also consider Coulsdon, Stratford, Longford, New Malden, Lambeth, Bromley, Leyton and Wandsworth.