The Pasture is a wild meadow. It is a bit rough in places and can be very wet after rain and in the late autumn/winter/early spring months. Make sure you have stout footwear, particularly at these times of year, and watch your step as you wander around. It will take you about 20-30 minutes to walk around the Pasture, but much longer if you linger awhile to appreciate its beauty. A list of wildlife you might see on your visit is posted on the Noticeboard by the entrance, where there is a map of the site.
Opening Times † unless too wet
☀️
April-October
Every Day: 9am-7pm or dusk
🌧
November-March
Weekends, bank holidays: 10am-3pm
📅
All Year
Saturday volunteering: 10am-12noon
Winter Months Notice ☔During winter, early sunsets, muddy paths, and challenging weather affect our schedule. Opening times will depend on volunteer availability, daylight hours, and weather conditions.
There is one short hard surfaced all-weather footpath, which takes you alongside butterfly border and the pond to a seating area. This is suitable for those a little unsteady on their feet, for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Other access around the Pasture is by way of informal grassy footpaths. There are a number of seats provided for visitors.
You will see that some areas are not to be walked across. These are being kept as undisturbed areas for wildlife. Please observe the boundaries of these areas and do not venture into them. Respect wildlife at all times: do not pick flowers or take anything from the site - leave for others to enjoy. If you see anything unusual, we would love to hear from you.
Access is free of charge, but as a small registered charity we rely on donations and support to maintain and restore the Pasture.
Moorhen, Frog/tadpole, Toad, Newt, Dragonfly, Water Boatman
Throughout the Pasture
Birds, Fox, Bank Vole, Field Mouse
Check out our full species checklist for a complete list of wildlife spotted at Long Lane Pasture. Seen something unusual? Let us know!
Location
Long Lane Pasture lies in North London, in the London Borough of Barnet, on the border between postal districts N3 and N2. It is bounded by the North Circular Road, the Northern Line railway, Pointalls Allotments land and Long Lane.
The entrance to the Pasture is on an access road leading between 280 Long Lane, opposite the fire station and next to the underpass under the North Circular Road, and 84 Rosemary Avenue. Rosemary Avenue is the continuation of Station Road which runs from Finchley Central Station.
There is free parking in Long Lane. Do not park in the access road leading up to the Pasture. This is for the use of the adjacent householder only.
Amenities
Pathways
Well-maintained paths that allow visitors to walk around the pasture and enjoy its natural beauty. The paths are generally level and accessible.
Sheltered Gazebos
Our accessible pathway reached the main pond, where the gazebo provides a place to sit and enjoy the view.
Seating Areas
Benches are placed at various points around the pasture, offering visitors a place to sit, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.
Waste Bins
Waste bins provided for visitors to dispose of litter responsibly. Please help keep the pasture clean by using these bins or taking your waste home with you.
Information Boards
Information board at the entrance to the pasture that provides details about the site, including a map and information about the wildlife that can be found there.
Ponds
Small ponds that serve as habitats for amphibians and aquatic plants. Important ecological features and offer a spot for quiet observation.
Wildflower Meadows
Wildflower meadows are a key attraction. They are carefully managed to encourage biodiversity and provide a beautiful display, especially in the spring and summer.
Trees and Bushes
A variety of plant life provide shade, shelter, and food for wildlife. They also add to the beauty of the pasture.
Toilets
No public toilets on the site.
Play Areas
No playgrounds or other play facilities. Intended for quiet enjoyment and wildlife observation.
Cafes or Shops
No cafes, shops, or other commercial facilities on the site. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own refreshments and take their litter home.
Formal Gardens
The pasture is a wild meadow and is managed to encourage natural habitats and biodiversity.
Parking
Free parking in Long Lane. Do not park in the access road leading up to the Pasture. This is for the use of the adjacent householder only.
