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Panshanger Park

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A sprawling countryside park with serene lakes, ancient woodlands, and historical ruins, perfect for nature lovers and walkers.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Meditative atmosphere, sunbeams through trees

CrowdLow
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Panshanger Park - Image 1

Panshanger Park

Best Time

Morning

Meditative atmosphere, sunbeams through trees

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling countryside park with serene lakes, ancient woodlands, and historical ruins, perfect for nature lovers and walkers.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A park that feels like it's been ripped straight out of a fairytale, Panshanger Park has your attention the moment you step into its gorgeous acres."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking App Hassle

Parking is via the RingGo app, with an extra charge. Be prepared for this system .

🗺️ Trail Signage Lacking

Signage can be minimal; use a map or navigation app to explore effectively .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Orangery Ruins

The Orangery Ruins

Remnants of the historic Panshanger estate

Explore the atmospheric ruins of the Orangery, a poignant reminder of the estate's grand past.

King's Lake

King's Lake

Central lake area

A serene lake offering stunning reflections and a chance to spot diverse birdlife and dragonflies.

The Magnificent Oak Tree

The Magnificent Oak Tree

Ancient woodland area

Stand beneath a tree rumored to have been planted by Queen Elizabeth I, a truly majestic sight.

Longhorn Cattle

Longhorn Cattle

Grazing fields

Observe the friendly Longhorn cattle that roam parts of the park, adding a rustic charm.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Panshanger Park

Panshanger Park offers vast open spaces with diverse trails, but signage can be sparse. Plan your route using a map or app, and be aware that parking is managed via the RingGo app, with an additional charge for convenience.Reddit

Respecting Wildlife and Rules

While Panshanger Park is a haven for wildlife, some visitors note issues with dogs off leads and litter. Adhering to leash rules and proper waste disposal helps preserve this beautiful natural environment for everyone.Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Meditative atmosphere, sunbeams through trees
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Glorious colors, ideal for parkrun
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Parkrun events and community walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🐾”Love is a wet nose and a happy tail." #thehoundsofherts #dogsoftiktok #doglovers #dogs #dogsoftiktokviral #funnydogsoftiktok #dogwalk #petcare #fyp #welwyngardencity #panshangerpark #fyppp #hertfordshire
@hounds00
61 likes • 510 views

🚗 Parking App Hassle

Parking is via the RingGo app, with an extra charge. Be prepared for this system.Reddit

🗺️ Trail Signage Lacking

Signage can be minimal; use a map or navigation app to explore effectively.Reddit+1

#familyworkshops #inclusive #community #workshops #welwyngardencity #hertford #panshangerpark #hertfordshire #hertsfamilies #neurodivergent #mosaic #wildlife #nature #mosaicart
@montetdesigns
12 likes • 1.9K views
Adventure day: Panshanger Park. At the suggestion of one of my lovely work colleague we visited Panshanger Park, fortunately this gem is located only a 15 minutes drive from where we live. It was a misty day, but I do believe it added to the beauty of the day as the silhouettes of trees on the horizon provided epic views and the damp weather offered perfect environment to find some cool mushroom...
scisavage
660 likes • 22.1K views

🐾 Dog Lead Rules

Keep dogs on leads to protect wildlife, even though not everyone adheres to this.Reddit

☕ Coffee Stop

Planted Coffee Co. in the car park offers welcome drinks post-walk.InstagramReddit

🌿 Take a Breath at Panshanger Park 🌿 #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek Spending time at Panshanger Park isn’t just a scenic escape, it’s a powerful way to support your mental wellbeing. Whether you’re walking through ancient woodlands, pausing by the lakes, or simply soaking in the sounds of birdsong, nature gives us space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. Come for a walk, bring a friend, or just s...
panshangerpark
34 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking App Hassle

Parking is via the RingGo app, with an extra charge. Be prepared for this system.Reddit

🗺️ Trail Signage Lacking

Signage can be minimal; use a map or navigation app to explore effectively.Reddit+1

🐾 Dog Lead Rules

Keep dogs on leads to protect wildlife, even though not everyone adheres to this.Reddit

☕ Coffee Stop

Planted Coffee Co. in the car park offers welcome drinks post-walk.InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Wildlife Spotting

Look out for diverse wildlife like dragonflies, birds, and even pigs.Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Panshanger Park is widely praised for its beautiful, expansive landscapes, serene lakes, and rich history, offering a peaceful escape. However, some visitors note issues with limited signage, parking app inconveniences, and a lack of on-site facilities like toilets.

"Morning times are almost meditative while taking a walk throuugh the park. The frost is still poly glass blades and the sun was streaming through the gaps in between the thicken trees from where leaves had already fallen onto the floor of the forest path. Piece de resistance for me is the first vision of the lake normally. I sit by the lake pondering on today and dream about tomorrow wishing everyone everything alive peace"

Sethu Wariyar

"Vast open space for all the family and 4 leggers to enjoy. Lots of different trails to follow, although not much in the way of signage. A few maps showing 'You are here' so the park is fairly easy to navigate.
Parking done via the most useless App but is reasonable at £2-75 for up to 4 hours.
Highlights in the park are the remains of the house and Orangery, which are fenced off for some H&S reason, and the magnificent Oak Tree which gives up some great photos.
Lack of toilet on site, and no picnic benches but plenty of standard benches dotted around.
Special mention to #PlantedCoffeeCo in the car park for welcome drinks after the walk."

Iain Wooding

"A park that feels like it's been ripped straight out of a fairytale, Panshanger Park has your attention the moment you step into its gorgeous acres of fields but it's not until you go up the hill and you see the bench and the lake in the distance that you truly understand just how beautiful this park really is. There's the Orangery nearby - the only surviving remnant of what once was the standing estate of the Panshanger family, as well as a tree that's purported to have been planted by Queen Elizabeth I herself - and it truly is a magnificent tree. Other highlights include the King's Lake with its crystal clear waters and stunning photo opportunities and of course the many species of dragonflies that call Panshanger Park home. Grab a camera, grab a packed lunch and prepare to be immersed by an achingly beautiful otherworldly park steeped in history, awe and wonder."

Sadek Miah

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Peaceful atmosphere
Historical remnants

What People Dislike

Limited signage
Parking app issues
Lack of toilets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Panshanger Park is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Some visitors mention it's a short drive from local areas.TikTok Public transport options may require further research depending on your starting point.

Yes, there is parking available. However, it is managed through the RingGo app and incurs an additional charge.Reddit

Cycling is a popular way to explore Panshanger Park, with various trails suitable for bikes. Some visitors enjoy cycling routes that connect to the park.TikTok

Absolutely! Panshanger Park is a prime destination for walking, offering extensive trails through woodlands, fields, and alongside lakes.TikTokReddit

Visitors enjoy circuits around the lakes and paths through the trees. While signage can be limited, following a map or app is recommended.Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Panshanger Park is generally free to enter. The main cost is for parking, which is managed via the RingGo app.Reddit

As a countryside park, Panshanger Park is typically open from dawn till dusk. Specific hours for facilities like the coffee van may vary.Instagram

There is no general entrance fee for Panshanger Park itself. Parking fees apply.Reddit

No booking is required for general visits to Panshanger Park. It's a public space for exploration.

While generally open, some areas might have temporary restrictions for conservation or safety. Always observe posted signage.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Explore the Orangery ruins, King's Lake, ancient trees, and diverse wildlife. It's ideal for walking, photography, and enjoying nature.TikTokReddit

Yes, Panshanger Park offers stunning photographic opportunities with its lakes, woodlands, wildlife, and historical remnants.TikTokReddit

Unfortunately, there is a lack of on-site toilets at Panshanger Park, which is a point of feedback from visitors.Reddit

While there are plenty of benches, dedicated picnic benches are scarce. You can bring your own blanket and find a scenic spot.Reddit

Panshanger Park is dog-friendly, but visitors strongly advise keeping dogs on leads due to wildlife and safety concerns.InstagramReddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Planted Coffee Co., a mobile coffee shop, is often found in the car park, offering a welcome refreshment.InstagramReddit

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option, as on-site dining facilities are limited.Reddit

Planted Coffee Co. offers coffee and likely other beverages and snacks. They are known for being plant-based and vegan-friendly.Instagram

Dedicated picnic tables are not abundant. Visitors often use standard benches or bring their own blankets for picnics.Reddit

Barbecuing is generally not permitted in public parks to ensure safety and prevent damage. It's best to avoid this.

📸 📸 Photography

King's Lake, the Orangery ruins, ancient trees, and the diverse wildlife offer excellent photo opportunities.TikTokReddit

Panshanger Park's expansive landscapes and lakes can be ideal for drone photography, offering unique aerial perspectives.TikTok

You can photograph various bird species, dragonflies, and even the resident Longhorn cattle.InstagramReddit

Yes, the Orangery ruins and the ancient oak tree provide significant historical and photographic interest.Reddit

Mornings offer a serene atmosphere with soft light, while misty days can create dramatic silhouettes.TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Panshanger Park offers ample space for families to explore and play. The open fields and varied trails are great for kids to run around and discover nature.TikTok While there aren't many dedicated play areas, the natural environment itself provides plenty of adventure. Keep an eye out for the Longhorn cattle and various bird species, which can be exciting for children to spot.Instagram

Be prepared for limited facilities, particularly the lack of on-site toilets, so plan accordingly. Bringing a picnic is a good idea, as dining options are minimal.Reddit Ensure children are supervised, especially near water bodies and historical ruins. The parkrun events on Saturdays are also a family-friendly activity.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walking Enthusiasts

For dedicated walkers, Panshanger Park presents a network of trails offering diverse scenery. You can embark on leisurely strolls around King's Lake, explore the ancient woodlands, or take on more challenging routes that cover larger areas of the park.TikTokReddit The park's size means you can easily spend several hours here, discovering new paths with each visit.

While signage can be a challenge, using a map or a navigation app will help you make the most of your walk.Reddit+1 The park's varied terrain, from open meadows to tree-lined paths, provides an engaging experience for all levels of walkers. Don't forget to look out for the historical remnants like the Orangery ruins.Reddit

📸 Photographers

Panshanger Park is a dream destination for photographers, offering a rich tapestry of subjects. The King's Lake provides stunning reflections and opportunities to capture waterfowl and the changing skies.TikTokReddit The Orangery ruins offer a touch of historical drama, perfect for atmospheric shots.Reddit

Nature photographers will find plenty to capture, from the intricate details of dragonflies to the majestic presence of the ancient oak tree and the grazing Longhorn cattle.TikTokReddit Misty mornings can create ethereal scenes, while golden hour light can illuminate the park's natural beauty. Drone photography also offers unique perspectives of the expansive landscape.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Panshanger Park's History

Panshanger Park is steeped in history, most notably as the former site of the Panshanger estate. The most visible remnant of this grand past is the atmospheric Orangery ruins, which stand as a testament to the estate's former glory.Reddit While the main house is gone, these structures offer a glimpse into the architectural ambitions of centuries past.

Another significant historical feature is an ancient oak tree, rumored to have been planted by Queen Elizabeth I herself. This magnificent tree is a living piece of history, drawing visitors who wish to connect with the park's storied past. The park's landscape also includes King's Lake, adding to its historical and scenic appeal.Reddit

Understanding the park's heritage enriches the visitor experience. It transforms a simple walk into a journey through time, connecting you with the generations who have shaped and enjoyed this beautiful landscape. Look for any available information boards to learn more about the estate's former inhabitants and its evolution.

Wildlife and Nature at Panshanger Park

Panshanger Park is a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. The park's lakes and waterways are home to numerous bird species, including ducks, geese, and coots, often seen with their ducklings.Reddit Keep an eye out for the vibrant dragonflies that inhabit the area, especially during warmer months.Reddit

The park also features Longhorn cattle grazing in certain areas, adding a unique pastoral element to the landscape.Instagram These animals are generally accustomed to visitors but should be observed from a respectful distance. The park's woodlands and open fields provide crucial habitats for various other creatures, contributing to its rich biodiversity.

Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the wildlife. This includes adhering to dog leash rules to prevent disturbance and ensuring no litter is left behind, as even small items can harm animals.Reddit Experiencing the natural beauty and wildlife of Panshanger Park is a rewarding aspect of any visit.

Parkrun and Community Events

Panshanger Park is a popular venue for community events, most notably the parkrun. Held weekly, it attracts runners, joggers, and walkers of all ages and abilities.Instagram+1 The parkrun events are a fantastic way to experience the park's atmosphere and engage with the local community. It's a testament to the park's appeal as a healthy and active outdoor space.

Beyond parkrun, the park hosts other community gatherings. For instance, dog training groups organize large walks here, fostering a sense of community among dog owners.Instagram These events highlight Panshanger Park's role as a central hub for local activities and social interaction.

Participating in or observing these events can add another layer to your visit, offering insights into how the local community utilizes and cherishes this beautiful natural space. Check local listings for any upcoming events during your planned visit.

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