Cedars Park

Cedars Park has provided an escape and urban retreat for the public since it was given to the people of Cheshunt and Waltham Cross in 1920. The site covers 40 acres and ranges from woodland to wildflower meadows and formal parkland, containing an abundance of diverse flora and fauna, a variety of specimen trees, interesting architectural features and a wealth of history.
By means of a grant from the HLF and Big Lottery Parks for People programme to protect, conserve and improve Cedars Park for the borough’s residents, an extensive restoration project recently took place, which included: removing the Theobalds Palace Scheduled Ancient Monument from the English Heritage at Risk Register; repairing paths and derelict buildings; improving car parking, café, toilets, and access for less able people; uncovering, educating and showcasing more important history of the site, involving local schools; providing new community space and more events; planting 2,500 trees; developing natural play features for families - bocce, turf maze, willow tunnel; increasing volunteering and biodiversity.
The Park, a place of beauty, provides a meeting place at the heart of the community and is used for recreation, regular family events, enjoyment, relaxation and quiet reflection whilst promoting sustainability, natural play, and physical and mental health benefits. The Park has a 'Friends of' group, acting as eyes and ears for the Green Spaces Officer and provide support for community events and volunteers carry out conservation tasks on a regular basis. In 2016 Lottery funding was secured and utilised for refurbishment of the pond and other landscape features around the park. Pets’ Corner was transformed in 2017 to house a new Nature Centre, with a reptile house, meerkats, a python and a variety of small animals. The Venusberg mound was also completely refurbished in 2018.