Abney Park Trust are delighted to welcome two of Hackney's Arboricultural Officers (Highways & Parks) to lead an early spring tree walk.  Please join book your free ticket and join us at the High Street entrance, near to the cafe, which is the starting point for this walk. 

This will be a tree-focussed ramble around Abney, taking in some of the historic specimens and rare species that grow here. We'll consider topics like the interaction of trees and fungi, invasive species, and the special challenges of managing trees in this woodland-park-cemetery hybrid. We will also touch on the management of the site in comparison to more urban areas of highway.

This walk will be led by Oliver Hayes:

I'm a forester, ecologist and arboriculturist. I manage the tree team at Hackney Council. My formative experience was in the countryside, managing the trees and woodlands on a rural estate. But what I find most interesting these days is the challenge of restoring and managing wildlife in a city.

and Marc Sanders:

I started my career as a climbing arborist, transitioning into the world of trees and planning and eventually urban forestry in 2020. I am fascinated by the natural world and its interconnectedness.

Access information: The Church Street entrance has ramp access and there is level access at the High Street entrance, near to the cafe, which has accessible facilities. The walk will be along the main paths, which are wheelchair accessible. Accompanying carers welcome. The paths have recently been resurfaced but can be muddy after wet weather so we advise wearing sturdy walking shoes or wellington boots. Dogs on leads, including access dogs, are welcome to join the walk.  There are benches at regular intervals throughout the park, providing seating if needed.