London’s Ancient Woodland: The Capital Ring from Crystal Palace to Dulwich Wood

A low-carbon journey through a forgotten ancient forest that predates London. Start at Crystal Palace Park with its life-sized dinosaur sculptures, then follow the Capital Ring footpath into the Great North Wood – a remnant of the medieval hunting forest that once stretched from Deptford to Croydon. Hidden gems: the Sydenham Hill Wood nature reserve (a bluebell carpet in spring), the ruined 17th-century mansion at Dulwich Wood, and a secret community orchard. Insider tip: the wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest – look for the rare stag beetles. Low-carbon: Overground to Crystal Palace station, then walk.