TO EXPLORE the great outdoors, holidaymakers often head into the depths of the countryside – despite London having its very own nature reserve in the heart of the city.
People in London may have heard of the Woodberry Wetlands or Sydenham Hill Wood, but there’s another wildlife reserve hidden next to St Pancras.
Camley Street Natural Park is set on the banks of Regent’s Canal and has become a haven for both plants and wildlife.
Created on an old coal yard in 1984, the park doesn’t initially sound like a place where wildlife could ultimately thrive.
But it’s actually home to several creatures, including mallards, coots, kingfishers, herons, amphibians, and insects.
There’s also a variety of plant life and rare fungi too.
The park is run by the London Wildlife Trust, a charity that’s dedicated to protecting plants and animals in the English Capital.
In addition to being able to walk freely through the two-acre park, the London Wildlife Trust also runs a series of family drop-in days.
During these sessions, which mainly take place at the weekend, young parkgoers are invited to go pond-dipping and mini-beast hunting.
A statement on the park’s website says: “Toads, tadpoles, woodlice, and worms are just a selection of the animals that you might discover here!
“Activities will include using nets to look at animals found in the pond and looking under logs to see what minibeasts we can find as well as seasonal craft activities.”
Families will also be able to follow a nature trail with its very own floating viewing platform.
On the platform, visitors will be able to look through a series of peepholes and spot birds like swans, moorhens and kingfishers.
The sessions are aimed at children of all ages, who must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Anyone taking part in one of the family drop-in sessions should be dressed in appropriate clothing, as it’s likely to get muddy.
The sessions are free to enter – although donations are welcomed.
Families don’t need to book in advance either, they just need to meet by the pond before the start of a session.
Other facilities include a visitor centre, a cafe, and access to public toilets, and baby changing facilities.
Camley Street Natural Park is next to St Pancras Station in Central London.
The park is a 10-minute walk from St Pancras Train Station, and it’s an eight-minute walk from King’s Cross Station.
The natural park has been praised by families on TripAdvisor too.
One person said: “A lovely small wildlife area with labels as you explore the various woodland paths. There’s an area and equipment for pond dipping. It’s a great hidden gem.”
While another added: “A beautiful small nature reserve next to a canal with a small cafe offering hot and cold drinks.”
Someone else said: “A fabulous oasis in the middle of London.”
Other nearby attractions include the Coal Drops Yard, which is a shopping centre, and the Regent’s Canal.
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