Califormia Country Park sits to the north of Finchampstead and has over 100 acres of ancient bogland and lowland heath to explore. At the center is Longmoor lake with five islands making it the perfect spot for fishing. There’s also a play area which is currently being updated and due to open this spring. There will be new equipment including a sensory and water play area, a woodland adventure trail and tree houses. In the summer the paddling pool opens and makes the perfect spot for kids to cool off and splash about.
Jackson’s California Lake Café serves fresh, homemade, locally sourced food and is a lovely place to refuel and take in the views across Longmoor lake.
There are two walks around the park which are relatively flat and good for buggies when the weather is dry. When it’s wet and muddy in winter it’s best to swap the buggy for a sling. Don’t forget to pack some good walking boots too!
- Longmoor Lake walk is 0.9 miles long.
- Woodland Walk is 2.2 miles long.
You can download a map of both these California Country Park Walks here.
When visiting we went on the longer circular woodland walk which takes you into the 8,000 year old Longmore bog and across the everglades board walk. With the rare sedges and mosses this is now a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a beautiful photo spot. The walk continues through the heathland where you may spot cows grazing to help with the conservation of the heath.
If you’re heading here in the summer look out for the heath spotted orchid in the glades. I’m planning on visiting when it gets warmer as these would make such a pretty backdrop for portrait photos.
I have lot’s of other family friendly Berkshire walks on the blog. Here’s a few of my favourites to check out:
- Wilder’s Folly and Sulham Woods 2.4 Mile Circular Walk
- Wargrave Chalk Pit 1.5 Mile Walk
- Simon’s Wood 1.3 Mile Walk at Finchampstead Ridges
Anna x
California country park map
Parking: California Country Park, Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead, Wokingham RG40 4HU
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