The story
The Great North Wood once covered much of south London. Most of it was cleared, but Sydenham Hill Wood survives, managed by the London Wildlife Trust.
In the nineteenth century, large houses were built on the hill, and their gardens left traces, such as a folly. A railway line ran through the wood until 1954, and its old tunnel is now a bat roost. From the footbridge on Cox's Walk, the painter Camille Pissarro painted a view of the railway in 1871.
What to look for
- Ancient trees and woodland.
- The Victorian folly.
- The old railway tunnel.
- The Pissarro view from Cox's Walk.
Why it's worth seeking out
Sydenham Hill Wood is one of the best places in London to understand how the city's landscape has changed. Ancient woodland survives alongside the remains of Victorian gardens and the course of a lost railway. The mix creates a rich habitat for birds, bats, insects and fungi. The wood is steep in places, and its winding paths can feel surprisingly wild, especially in autumn. It is close to Dulwich and the Horniman Museum, so it is easy to combine with other south London attractions.
Combine it with
The Horniman Museum, Dulwich Park and Dulwich Picture Gallery are nearby.
Visiting tips
Paths can be muddy and steep. The tunnel is closed to the public to protect bats.
Getting there
Sydenham Hill station is a short walk. With Mason & Green, we can drop you on Crescent Wood Road.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Great North Wood?
An ancient woodland that once covered much of south London.
Can you go into the railway tunnel?
No. It is closed to protect bats.
What did Pissarro paint here?
A view of the railway from Cox's Walk footbridge.