Ancient Hedgerows and Boundary Trees - Discovering remnants of farm and boundary hedges in North West London

Golders Hill Park contains some wonderful remnants of old parish boundaries, mostly in the form of veteran oaks, at least one of which is probably 400 years old. Meanwhile, across North End Way, Hampstead Heath Extension contains remnants of field boundaries and hedgerows from when this area was farmland, from the 17th c until it was acquired as a public space in 1907.

Some of the hedgerows are likely remnants of ancient woodland, with typical ‘indicator’ species like Wild Service tree, Field Maple, and Small-leaved Lime. There are also remnants of veteran hazel coppices. The hedgerows harbour a diversity of invertebrates, birds and small mammals, as well as wildflowers. There are many spots on this walk where it is hard to remember you are only half a mile from a busy main road and bus terminus – it feels more like it must have looked 150 years ago.

For all ages, if accompanied by an adult.