Belhus, Country park in Thurrock, England
Belhus is a country park in Thurrock featuring protected ancient woodlands, grasslands, and several lakes connected by designated walking trails. The grounds include a visitor center with refreshments, parking facilities, and areas designated for picnicking and fishing.
The estate underwent major transformations between 1744 and 1777 when landscape architect Lancelot Brown designed the grounds and gardens. This period shaped the layout and structure visible in the landscape today.
Traditional woodland management through coppicing continues at Running Water Wood, where craftspeople still harvest materials for thatching, hurdle making, firewood, and charcoal. This centuries-old practice shapes how the forest looks today and connects visitors to sustainable land use that has endured for generations.
The park opens daily from 8 AM until dusk, with ample parking and well-maintained pathways for easy access throughout the grounds. Wear sturdy shoes and bring waterproof clothing, as some trails pass through wooded and potentially damp areas.
An 18th-century ice house well with brick lining sits in the northeast section of the park, revealing how people once stored ice underground to preserve food. This forgotten structure offers a tangible window into early refrigeration methods and the practical ingenuity of the period.
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