History of the Nature Trail
The Horniman Nature Trail is the oldest in London. It is roughly half a mile long on the site of the original Crystal Palace and South London Junction Railway. The railway was closed in 1954 and the area was left unmanaged until 1972. This resulted in it becoming a wild woodland area.
The Nature Trail today
The trail is managed carefully to encourage a wide variety of plants, birds, insects and other animals which depend on each other for survival. Pond and meadow habitats have been introduced at the end to attract new species. There is also a log pile area which is home to dozens of different mini beasts including the endangered stag beetle.
Opening times and where to find it
The main entrance is located on the cycle path that runs parallel with the Museum and Gardens and can be accessed from London Road. It is open from 9am - 4pm, but may be closed at short notice during bad weather. Please check with the Information Desk at the start of your visit or call 020 8699 1872.
Taking care of the Nature Trail
The trail is a sensitive area and much time goes into managing it for your enjoyment. Please help us to look after the area by not taking dogs onto the trail and by taking all of your litter home with you. Guide dogs are allowed. Please do not pick any leaves or flowers. They are an important part of the nature trail habitats and some can be sharp or sting.
The Horniman Museum is working in partnership with the Trust for Urban Ecology (TRUE) to manage the trail.
Nature Trail Newsletter