Lesnes Abbey Woods
Park information
Lesnes Abbey Woods is a hidden treasure in the heart of suburban London.
The site contains the consolidated remains of Lesnes Abbey ruin founded by Richard de Luci in 1178. This has been a very important site throughout history and was even visited by Edward I.
Lesnes Abbey Wood is full of a diversity of wildlife habitats, plants and flowers. There are self-guided trails which take you through valleys containing hornbeam trees, wild flowers such as figwort and dogs mercury, open heath land and ornamental gardens.
Park features and facilities
- Abbey ruin
- Self-guided walks
- Green Chain Walk
- Interpretation Centre
- Bluebell Woods*
- Formal gardens
- Playground
- Orienteering facilities
- Toilets
* Please note that the picking of bluebells and wild flowers at this historic site is strictly prohibited.
You can also use the links on the left to find out more about what Lesnes Abbey has to offer.
Park location and travel information
Lesnes Abbey is situated off the B213, Abbey Road, Belvedere and can be reached by bus, for information please see the Transport for London buses webpage provided in the right hand menu.The nearest railway station is Abbey Wood Station.
For further information please contact Parks and Open Spaces using the contact details provided on the right.
Further information
You can find out more about the abbey by visiting The Greenwich Heritage Centre, Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich, SE18 4DX, where there are many interesting archaeological finds on display from the excavation of the Abbey.
A number of tombs, other stonework and tiles are on display at St. John's Church, Erith. The Victoria and Albert Museum contains the effigy of a member of the de Luci family found in the chapter house, along with the missal of Lesnes Abbey, a richly illuminated manuscript from the early thirteenth century.
Lesnes Abbey Woods Conservation Volunteers
Email jwcannell@yahoo.com or visit the website in the right hand menu.
