Parks and Nature

Oxhey Activity Park , set along the River Colne, blends nature with modern recreation. Its riverside paths are popular with walkers, cyclists and dog-owners, while the state-of-the-art skate park and BMX facilities make it a hub for younger visitors. The Tasty Bean Café adds a welcoming riverside terrace - perfect for enjoying a delicious hot drink in winter or a refreshing cold drink in summer.

Cheslyn House and Gardens is often described as Watford’s hidden gem. Originally landscaped by architect Henry Colbeck and his wife Daisy, it features exotic plants, a woodland area, a pond and a rock garden. It’s a place to explore at leisure, offering a quieter, more intimate green space compared to the town’s larger parks.

Watford’s neighbourhood parks provide plenty of opportunities for play and family fun. Woodside Playing Fields is a major sports hub, with athletics, cricket, football, and bowls alongside a children’s play area. Harebreaks Recreation Ground and Harwoods Recreation Ground and Woodside offer playgrounds and adventurous play equipment, making them ideal for younger visitors.

The River Colne flows through Watford, shaping much of the town’s natural landscape. Its banks provide peaceful walking and cycling routes, connecting Cassiobury Park, Oxhey Park and the wider Green Loop. The river is home to kingfishers, herons and other wildlife - making it a favourite spot for nature lovers. Restoration projects along the Colne have improved habitats and access, ensuring it remains a thriving corridor of green space right through the town. You can learn more about these initiatives and the community’s efforts to rediscover the river on the River Colne website .