Things to note
This route involves crossing sections of road and car parks.
This route is one of the longest of our featured routes and brings together two key nature reserves that site either side of the M25. From the intriguing explosive past of Gunpowder Park, through farmland, areas of reclaimed land following gravel extraction to an ultra-moden London 2012 venue, Lee Valley White Water Centre this routes boasts a true mixtures of all the elements that make up Lee Valley Regional Park.
Along the route you’ll find…
Gunpowder Park
The clue to this site’s history is in its name! Formerly part of Royal Gunpowder Mills the site was used or the research and development of explosives for which the town of Waltham Abbey was once famous for.
Meridian Way
As you cycle around the bend look over to the far side of the road, can you spot one of Britain’s rarest native trees growing proudly on the bank? The Black Poplar likes boggy ground such as wet woodland and can grow up to 30m high and live for 200 years.
The Viking Ship
The Viking Ship’s skeletal hull invokes images of the days gone by when the Vikings travelled the Lee.
Lee Valley White Water Centre
White water rapids on the edge of London you’d never have thought it. But following the London 2012 Games that exactly what we’ve got! This fan
tastic venue offers rafting, canoeing, hydrospeeding and hot dog sessions – everything that will ensure you get wet and have fun.
Hall Marsh Scrapes
As a section of floodplain grasslands this is a great place to spot Little Egret, Lapwing and other wading birds.
Hooks Marsh
As you wind you way along the river watch out for signs of the secretive Otter.
Fishers Green
An area of great beauty Seventy Acres Lake offers a snapshot of the wildlife that you’ll find throughout the area. A viewing platform near the waters’ edge allows you to get close up views of the waterbirds on the lake. Our knowledgeable volunteers will guide you and tell you who’s who in the wildlife world.
The Glade Sculpture
Before you embark on your ride take a quick look at one of the sculptures that you’ll find in River Lee Country Park. The skilful blending metal and wood forms the basis of this fantastic sculpture which represents the hidden world of the minibeast. From the tall flower protecting the ant to the smaller flora that grows closer to the ground, all these make up the minibeast’s
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SOURCE: www.visitleevalley.org.uk