Spring Park and Threehalfpenny Wood Loop

Starting near London, England, the Spring Park and Threehalfpenny Wood Loop is a delightful 5 km (approximately 3.1 miles) trail that offers a moderate challenge with no significant elevation gain. This loop trail is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can take public transport or drive. If you're using public transport, the nearest train station is West Wickham, which is well-connected to central London. From the station, it's a short bus ride on the 119 or 194 to the Spring Park area. If you're driving, you can park near the Spring Park entrance, located close to the intersection of Addington Road and Corkscrew Hill.### Trail Overview The trail begins at the entrance to Spring Park, a serene green space that quickly immerses you in a tranquil woodland setting. As you start your hike, you'll notice the well-maintained paths that make navigation straightforward. For those who prefer digital navigation, the HiiKER app is an excellent tool to ensure you stay on track.### Key Landmarks and Points of Interest - Spring Park: The initial part of the trail takes you through Spring Park, where you'll encounter a variety of native trees and plants. Keep an eye out for the ancient oak trees, some of which are several hundred years old. - Threehalfpenny Wood: As you progress, you'll enter Threehalfpenny Wood, a dense woodland area that offers a rich habitat for local wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species, including woodpeckers and nuthatches. - Historical Significance: The area around Spring Park and Threehalfpenny Wood has a rich history. During the medieval period, these woods were part of the Great North Wood, a vast forest that stretched across much of what is now South London. The name "Threehalfpenny Wood" is believed to derive from the toll that was once charged for using the paths through the wood.### Flora and Fauna The trail is a haven for nature enthusiasts. In Spring Park, you'll find a mix of deciduous trees such as oak, beech, and hornbeam. The undergrowth is rich with ferns, bluebells in the spring, and various fungi in the autumn. Threehalfpenny Wood, being denser, provides a different ecological environment, supporting a variety of mosses and lichens.Wildlife is abundant, with squirrels, foxes, and a plethora of bird species. If you're lucky, you might even spot a deer in the quieter parts of the wood.### Trail Navigation and Tips The loop is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a map or use the HiiKER app for real-time navigation. The paths can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended. There are several benches along the route, perfect for a rest or a picnic.### Final Stretch As you near the end of the loop, you'll exit Threehalfpenny Wood and re-enter Spring Park. The final stretch offers a gentle walk back to the starting point, where you can reflect on the natural beauty and historical richness of the area.This trail is a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the green spaces near London.