An NHM Reader recently asked: “Would anyone be able to recommend some local country parks? We like Wellington but it’s so expensive!”
Many thanks to the NHM Community for all of your responses, listed below in no particular order.
Please bear in mind that listings may change in subsequent years, but hopefully they will still be a good base point for your own research.
NHM Readers Recommend: Local Country Parks
Andrea said “All about a 30-50 min drive away. Dinton Pastures, Itchen Valley, Moors Valley, Royal Victoria, all free except for parking.
Clare said “Alice Holt has the gruffalo trail and in the summer Moors Valley in the New Forest is great for a while day with only parking to pay”
Charlene said “Alice Holt, Virginia Waters”
Dan said “Fleet ponds is lovely to walk around.”
Sarah said “California country park just pay parking”
Jo R said “Alice Holt, Bracknell look out (cheaper later in day) outside free. California country park. Dinton Pastures. Frensham big and little ponds. Elizabeth Country Park. Sign up to National Trust for less than £10 a month then go as many times as you can!
Vicky said “Some great suggestions! We went to California country park for the first time in October and we’ll be going back in the summer to try out the paddling pool (think it’s a £2.50 charge for the pool).”
Tracy said “Beale Park season ticket is very very good value!”
Emma L said “Defo Alice Holt and there’s one in Reading Dinton I think”
Rebecca said “I love California country park”
Aimee said “Dinton Pastures is awesome”
Jo W said “ Virginia Waters is beautiful”
Alison said “Thatcham discovery centre and Charlton lakes are great
Heather said “Queen Elizabeth Country Park in Petersfield. All free exc small parking fee and brilliant. Drive right to the top for excellent play areas and open spaces. And an obstacle course.”
Jenny said “Alice Holt and Dinton both fab – only pay for parking”
Rachel said “Dinton Pastures is brill and free apart from parking. Also nature discovery in Newbury which you just have to pay parking for.”
Emma H said “Moors Valley, you just pay for parking. It’s ace!! There’s also one in eastleigh but I can’t remember the name”
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