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Walthamstow Wetlands

Walthamstow Wetlands

Minutes from the buzz of the capital, Walthamstow Wetlands is the perfect place to get away from it all. Did you know the wetland is: 

  • Europe’s largest urban wetlands and London’s largest fishery 
  • A fully operational Thames Water site, providing water for 3.5 million people 
  • In partnership with the London Wildlife Trust 

What to see

The wetlands’ history is intertwined with the development of London’s water supply. From the Domesday Book to reservoirs hand-dug by Victorian navvies!

Walthamstow Wetlands spans ten distinct drinking water reservoirs. It's home to native birdlife, from kingfishers and raptors to the great crested grebe. Take a magical walk spanning up to 211 hectares, with views to inspire and refresh. 

Walks here are full of life. Bugs, mammals and amphibians share the wetlands with the birds they’re famous for.

Walthamstow Wetlands is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it’s a valuable area for conservation, sheltering rare plants and animals. 

Things to do

How will you spend your day at Walthamstow Wetlands?

Person fishing from the bank at Walthamstow Wetlands

Enjoy excellent angling

Across its ten reservoirs, Walthamstow Fishery offers superb angling opportunities. You’ll find chub, bream and carp, while the two fly-fishing reservoirs are full with trout. 

View across Walthamstow Wetlands

Take in the view

The Grade II-listed Coppermill Tower offers unique views of the capital. Take time out to enjoy London's skyline away from all the noise and traffic. 

The Engine House at Walthamstow Wetlands

See the swifts

The Grade II-listed Coppermill Tower offers unique views of the capital. Take time out to enjoy London's skyline away from all the noise and traffic. 

How to find us

Opening hours change by season, so check London Wildlife Trust for updates. You can visit the wetlands by:

Car: Walthamstow Wetlands, 2 Forest Road, London N17 9NH. Car parking is available. 

Public transport: short walk from Tottenham Hale or Blackhorse Road train stations 

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Visiting safely

  • Be respectful of other visitors and staff 
  • Follow any instructions and information on signs – they're there to keep you safe 
  • Children must be supervised at all times
  • Keep away from the water at all times. It’s deep and extremely cold, even in summer. There are strong currents caused by the water pumps, and banks are steep and slippery.
  • Guide and assistance dogs only
  • Cyclists and joggers must use cycle and jogging route
  • Take all litter home with you
  • As a working site, some areas may not be available
Accessibility

Accessibility

  • The Engine House and main concrete pathway through the site are accessible for wheelchair users and those with walking difficulties
  • The remaining pathways on the wetlands site are dirt track so may be uneven or muddy in places
  • The Engine House has a platform lift and accessible toilets with ramp entry
  • There are four parking bays available for blue badge holders, which are free of charge
Walthamstow Wetlands