West Ham Park has a magic trail to follow this summer, writes Lucia Rios Steele

A fairy door made by school pupils to be afixed to a tree

Fancy a walk down an enchanted trail full of tree spirits and magical fairy doors? Well, you might be surprised to find out you do not need to travel far!

Friends of West Ham Park has joined forces with children from Park Primary School and the West Ham Park learning team to create a tree trail in West Ham Park for all to enjoy this summer.

The trail comprises 16 different tree species which you can learn about by using the QR codes attached to each tree. So, if you do not know your Horse Chestnut from your Holm Oak, fear not – the trail will guide you! The trail begins near the Linden Gate,fittingly with the Hawthorn – known as the tree of the fairies, and goes through parkland areas that are often less travelled, including the orchard and south meadow. You can also play I-Spy to try and spot the handmade fairy doors which are hidden within the boughs.

Keep your eyes peeled for ladders, swings, doorbells and knockers. Enjoy the funky, other-worldly designs that are sure to transport you to the realm of pure imagination! But remember, move quietly and listen carefully, you may spot a door closing, hear a visitor knocking or maybe, just maybe hear the sound of fairies beating their wings.

The Tree Spirit Trail will be accessible in West Ham Park throughout the summer. Maps are available via the QR codes on the posters at each entrance gate or from the park office located opposite the playground.

Lucia Rios Steele is a Primary school teacher, Forest School practitioner, Friend of West Ham Park

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