Hainault Forest and Valentines Park voted best parks in the country in the People’s Choice Awards 2024

Redbridge Council is thrilled to announce that not one but two Redbridge parks - Hainault Forest and Valentines Park - have been recognised among the UK’s Top Ten parks in the prestigious People’s Choice Awards 2024.

This annual award by Keep Britain Tidy celebrates the nation’s best-loved parks, with over 21,000 people casting their votes.  Hainault Forest has achieved a top ten ranking for two consecutive years, while Valentines Park has been voted into the top ten an impressive nine times since 2012. These awards highlight the continued support and love from the local community for our cherished green spaces.

All nine of Redbridge’s Green Flag-awarded parks were eligible for the People’s Choice Awards, reflecting Keep Britain Tidy’s standards. These standards recognise well-maintained parks and clean, welcoming green spaces for recreation and relaxation.

Valentines Park, known for its picturesque Grade II listed building, boasts the largest outdoor gym in London, newly refurbished tennis courts, and will soon feature a 25-meter, six-lane swimming pool with modern changing facilities, a children’s splash pad, café, gym, dance studio, meeting room, outdoor recreation areas, and convenient parking - set to open in autumn 2025.  On the other hand, Hainault Forest offers a different experience with its charming 1856 Café, the Woodland Trust Visitor Centre, Foxburrows Farm, and engaging craft studios. It's a perfect destination for those who appreciate a blend of history, nature, and art.

We invite you to come and experience these award-winning parks for yourself. Since its recent redevelopment, Hainault Forest has seen a remarkable increase in visitors enjoying its new and enhanced amenities, which include the charming 1856 Café, the Woodland Trust Visitor Centre, Foxburrows Farm, and engaging craft studios.

Cllr Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, said: "We now have two of the best parks in the country right here in Redbridge on our doorstep. I’m very proud of the work and investment we've delivered at Hainault Forest, renovating the old Victorian barns and creating attractions for local families to enjoy. It is the perfect day out for our neighbours who enjoy beautiful landscapes, nature paths, taking the dog for a walk, and fun, free activities for children.

“We will also deliver London's first new lido in decades in Valentines Park next year. Very few local authorities are currently investing in leisure facilities on this scale.

 “I would like to thank our brilliant Parks Officers, who brave all weathers to keep them in such beautiful condition. We work extremely hard to keep our parks clean and tidy, and we ask that people do the same and take the same pride in them that we do. Everyone has a part to play in keeping Redbridge clean and safe."

Martin Solder, Chair of Vision Trustees, said: “All of Redbridge’s parks and open spaces are uniquely beautiful and cherished by our staff and local community. We are incredibly proud that two of our parks have been named among the best in the country. This achievement is a testament to our Parks team's hard work and dedication, who maintain the highest standards for our green spaces.”

 Find out more about the fantastic parks in Redbridge.