Scratchwood open space
With your back to the A1, follow the path (part of the London Loop) that runs from the right corner of the car park, passing the picnic benches to the left. Keep ahead through a metal gate and go straight, passing a red- and blue-topped post on your left. Follow the path as it descends and passes over two footbridges and then ascends. When the path divides take the right fork and keep ahead to pass a blue-topped post on the right. Follow this path as it meanders and undulates through the woodland.
Once past a red-topped post, the path goes over a small bridge and ascends again. On arrival at a tree in the middle of the path turn left and keep ahead to pass another red-topped post to your right, after which follow that path as it narrows and descends gradually. Here you will see large clumps of rhododendron. These were introduced, but can grow at a tremendous speed and have a tendency to eliminate all other ground vegetation. Careful woodland management, undertaken by Barnet Borough Council, has been necessary to enable other species to survive. Elsewhere the ancient ground cover – such as bracken, bramble and ivy – can be seen. Most of the large trees in these woods are oaks, but you will also see other typical English woodland trees including hornbeam, hazel, birch, holly and wild cherry.
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
Nearby places to stay
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- Family rooms: 4
- Free TV
- WiFi available
- Lift available
- Family rooms:
- Free TV
- WiFi available
- Lift available
