Historic Belhus Chase offers a fascinating day out
A trip to Belhus Chase is an opportunity to explore the five different public access sites which make up the Belhus Park estate. But give yourself time because there’s lots to see and do in a stimulating environment which has links back to the 16th century.
Located next to the village of Aveley, Belhus Chase was bought by the Woodland Trust in 1998. Since then this 137-acre site has seen important changes.
40,000 trees planted
In February 1999 the Trust planted some 40,000 trees there including oak, ash, hazel, field maple and wild cherry.
Three years later another significant event occurred in the site’s history when 1,000 trees were planted by children from three local schools. Their efforts helped to create the Bicentenary Grove which commemorates Debrett’s People of Today.
More recently a kilometre of surface track has been added to the site and more pathways are planned for the future, along with improved signage.
Attractive destination
These changes mean that Belhus Chase is becoming an attractive destination in its own right. But visitors also enjoy an exciting bonus, with access to a wide range of recreational resources offered by the adjoining sites.
As you explore the 740 acres of beautiful parkland, you’ll find much to entertain and amuse you. Take your pick from:
How to get there
It’s easy to get to the Belhus Park estate from central London by public transport. Simply take the District Line to Upminster then catch the 373 service from Grays to Romford, alighting at Usk Road, Aveley.
Alternatively, you canreach the site by road from the M25 at junction 30. Take the A13 west towards London, followed by the A1306 north and turn right onto the B1335 – Sandy Lane. Then turn left at the first roundabout into Romford Road and you’ll find Belhus Woods Country Park on the right.
Belhus Park estate
Besides Belhus Chase, the estate also includes:
- Belhus Woods Country Park – owned by Essex County Council
- Oak Wood and Ash Plantation – owned by Thurrock Council
- Cely Woods – owned by the Forestry commission
- Belhus Park Golf & Country Club – owned by Impulse Leisure.
