“Follow the famous Gruffalo Trail through 500 acres of colourful woodland”
Split into North and South sections, Thorndon is best known as home to the Essex Gruffalo Trail — a free, self-guided woodland walk (30-45 minutes, can get muddy) past substantial wooden character sculptures including the Gruffalo, the Gruffalo’s Child, fox, owl, snake and mouse, starting near the Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Discovery Centre (a trail map costs around 50p from the visitor centre). There is no playground on site. The EWT-run visitor centre has a gift shop stocked with Gruffalo merchandise plus homeware and gifts, and a cafe serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, ice creams and pre-packaged sandwiches. Dog-friendly, with several car parks including overflow parking on busy days — follow signs for the Nature Discovery Centre, not Thorndon South.
Facilities
- Dog friendly
- Gift shop
- Outdoor
- Paid parking
- Snacks available
- Toilets
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gruffalo Trail free?
Yes, the self-guided Gruffalo Trail is free once you're in the park (parking charges apply).
Is it accessible?
Yes, a surfaced track connects Thorndon North and South suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to leave one.