Biggin Wood

Biggin Wood is an ancient oak woodland in the London Borough of Croydon. It lies near Beulah Hill and Covington Way, surrounded by housing estates today. The wood covers an area once much larger, stretching into what are now allotments. Records from 1493 mention ‘Biggins Farm, Biggenswood’, showing its long history. Parts of the wood were managed as coppices in the 17th century, with evidence still visible. The wood has changed shape over centuries, shaped by land sales, roads and wartime events. The wood supports British wildlife such as the Great spotted woodpecker and English Oak. Bluebells grow here in spring, adding colour to the woodland floor. The London Wildlife Trust works with Croydon Council and local groups to improve the site. The Great North Wood Project aims to restore habitats and paths for wildlife. A small bomb crater from the Second World War remains near Covington Way entrance. The wood’s past includes a grand house, Bigginwood House, built between 1800 and 1828. Visitors find shaded woodland paths and open glades to explore. Tennis courts sit near the northern edge, with changing rooms and toilets nearby. Steps and waymarked routes help walkers move through the wood safely. The eastern side holds allotments on land once part of the wood. A small air raid shelter from the war can still be found. The wood remains a quiet green space in a busy part of London.