What Are the Best Senior-Friendly Outdoor Activities in Romford This Summer?

1. Picnics, Barbecues and Outdoor Dining for Older Adults

Romford’s parks and green spaces offer more than just a scenic view, they provide a place to relax, eat outdoors and socialise. Picnics are an ideal choice for older adults receiving home care support, as they can be tailored to mobility needs and dietary preferences.

Bedfords Park is particularly popular, with flat pathways, accessible benches and shaded picnic spots. Whether you bring sandwiches, a flask of tea, or something more special from home, the park allows everyone to enjoy food in a relaxed setting. Look out for the red deer in the enclosure, a gentle and rewarding experience for visitors of all ages.

If you’re organising a barbecue, the open spaces at Raphael Park and Harrow Lodge Park in nearby Hornchurch offer family-friendly locations with enough room for folding chairs, a gazebo, and easy parking nearby. Just be sure to check park rules for open-flame cooking or opt for a pre-cooked picnic feast.

2. Landscape Painting and Creative Calm Outdoors

If you or a loved one enjoys art, why not take it outside? With their spacious layouts and sweeping views, both Havering Country Park and Bedfords Park make excellent open-air studios. Bring watercolours, pastels or a sketchbook, and settle near one of the quieter woodland paths or lakeside benches.

This gentle activity is especially suited to older adults living with dementia or those who find creativity soothing. Caregivers can assist with setting up, bringing folding stools or cushions for extra comfort.

Havering Adult College offers art classes indoors, but during warmer months, painting outdoors can bring a new perspective and peacefulness.

Romford’s green spaces also play host to structured and sociable group activities that take place outdoors but are adapted for those needing support.

3. Walking Groups and Nature Walks

Many older adults enjoy walking but need gentle pacing and rest opportunities. Monthly Walk & Talk Events, organised in partnership with the Samaritans, provide a supported environment for conversation and mild exercise. The paths at Wild Forest are wide and scenic, and the walks end with a sit-down around a fire pit, ideal for those who want fresh air and connection without the rush.

Alternatively, a quiet walk through Havering Country Park or Cottons Park can be just as rewarding. Caregivers might bring binoculars or a bird guide for added enjoyment.

4. Gardening and Community Green Projects

If your loved one enjoys hands-on activities, Romford’s community garden spaces or allotment visits can be adapted with carer support. While intensive gardening may not be possible for everyone, watering flowers, arranging planters, or simply sitting among others who are gardening can be enriching.

Keep an eye out for announcements from Friends of Raphael & Lodge Farm Parks, who sometimes run community events and gardening sessions open to all ages.

Spending time outdoors has clear benefits for physical and emotional wellbeing, but we always recommend planning ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day:

• Mobility Aids: Many parks in Romford offer paved pathways that accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
• Accessible Toilets: Locations such as Raphael Park and Bedfords Park have accessible toilet facilities on site.
• Hydration and Shade: Bring water, hats and sunscreen, especially during warmer spells. Many outdoor spaces now include shaded shelters or gazebos.
• Companionship: Whether through a family member, professional caregiver or local group, being outdoors is always better together.