Scratchwood

Scratchwood is a country park with oak and hornbeam woodlands, herb-rich grassland, and a pond spread across the site. The landscape includes areas of mature forest alongside open spaces that support different types of plants and wildlife.

The woodland originated after the last ice age and contains remnants of the ancient Middlesex Forest that once covered this region. The current composition reflects how woodlands in this area recovered and changed over many centuries.

The park sits within a green corridor that connects local neighborhoods to wider nature areas, offering residents and visitors a place to walk among mature trees and observe wildlife in daily visits.

The park has a main entrance with parking available from the northbound lane of Barnet Way on the A1 road. Wear sturdy shoes as paths wind through woodland areas and can become muddy after rain.

The site hosts several rare plant species and serves as a breeding ground for birds including nuthatch, lesser whitethroat, and cuckoo. Early morning or late evening visits during breeding season offer the best chances to spot these birds.

Location: London Borough of Barnet

Shares border with: The Hale

GPS coordinates: 51.64000,-0.26400

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03