Nonsuch Park

Nonsuch Park offers 722 acres of adventure perfect for active families, with sprawling woodlands ideal for nature walks, wide open spaces for picnics and games, and fascinating Tudor history to explore. Kids will love running free through the trails, discovering the ornamental gardens, and learning about Henry VIII's lost palace at the heritage museum, all without spending a penny.

• ✓Extensive woodland trails perfect for nature walks and wildlife spotting
• ✓Wide open fields ideal for ball games, frisbee, and picnics
• ✓Nonsuch Mansion and Heritage Centre with Tudor palace history
• ✓Beautiful ornamental gardens with seasonal flowers
• ✓Excellent cycling paths suitable for families with young children

1. 1.Park at the main car park on Ewell Road (note: parking fees apply, typically a few pounds). Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot as it fills up quickly with local families.
2. 2.Bring bikes or scooters as the park has excellent flat paths perfect for young riders. The wide trails make it safe for children learning to cycle.
3. 3.Pack a picnic as there are limited food vendors inside the park. The Mansion House area has lovely picnic spots with tables and benches.
4. 4.Visit the Nonsuch Park Heritage Centre (inside Nonsuch Mansion) to see fascinating exhibits about the Tudor palace. It's free but has limited opening hours, typically Wednesday to Sunday afternoons.
5. 5.Wear appropriate footwear as woodland trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Wellies (rain boots) are recommended in wet weather for kids who want to explore off the main paths.

Spring (April-May) offers beautiful blossoms and mild weather, while autumn (September-October) provides stunning foliage. Weekday mornings are quietest. Visit mid-morning around 10am to avoid early dog walkers and enjoy the park at its most peaceful.

Completely free to enter and open 24 hours, though the heritage museum keeps limited hours. Car parking fees apply (coins or card). Public toilets are available near the mansion. The park has mostly flat terrain, making it pushchair and wheelchair accessible on paved paths.

Open year-round with different seasonal attractions. Spring brings daffodils and blossoms, summer is perfect for picnics, autumn offers stunning leaf colors, and winter can be muddy but quieter. The Heritage Centre may have reduced winter hours, so check ahead if planning to visit indoors.

The Wheatsheaf pub in Ewell (10 minutes walk) offers traditional British family meals with a children's menu. Alternatively, Epsom town center (1.5 miles away) has various chain restaurants like Pizza Express and Nando's that are reliable for families traveling from abroad.