At the heart of our space is a contemporary Visitor Centre at Broadfields, Upminster. It sits alongside an atmospheric, 17th century barn - home to weddings, special celebrations, festivals and many more exciting events. There are also three separate well-planned play areas for children; a conference room, meeting room and function/educational room.

Beavers and brownies love our lantern-making workshops... families have fun at three separate play areas including a discovery den...horse-riders and walkers wander for hours in our peaceful surroundings...school children get stuck into studying in our 'outdoor classrooms'... artists, musicians and craftsmen delight in a space that is unique.


Scrumptious food …and good shopping….

Excellent quality food, including locally sourced ingredients, and drinks are available from professional caterers inside the Visitor Centre.

There is a separate shop fully stocked with local produce and crafts carefully selected and not found elsewhere. See our shopping section.


Unique, special events…

From time to time local trades and crafts people take advantage of our special events to sell to the local community at markets. For our full programme of events see our Events and the separate Hire Us sections.

This list should give you a good idea of what is organised over the year by volunteers or with others and/or our partners, the Forestry Commission:

• unique children birthday parties that make the most of Thames Chase’ surroundings and nature in general (sometimes with a fairy or pirate thrown in for good measure).
• educational and craft sessions for children and adults that include everything from jewellery – to lantern-making.
• environmental education for schools, covering all ages, and for youth groups.
• activities during school holidays.
• corporate and team building events.
• weddings.
• special occasion parties or celebrations such as communions.

As a venue we are unique and that is what makes each event special.