Join us for a walk around Shinfield to find out about local history, nature and nature-recovery ambitions, led by Nigel Frankland.

We will start outside the Gateway Building and walk to the site of the new Natural History Museum building currently under construction. Joined by Michaela Freeman, Curator, we will make a pitstop here to talk about the new art commission for the area (feel free to bring a picnic blanket and refreshments, biscuits will be provided).

The walk will include special areas earmarked for habitat restoration and biodiversity enhancement, following the River Loddon and passing through areas such as Rushy Mead LWS.

If there’s time and appetite for an additional 2km, the walk could extend to Hall Farm and the site of Old St Bartholomew’s Church (a Scheduled Ancient Monument), and even squeeze in a literary aside - courtesy of A. A. Milne - with a game of Pooh Sticks from Loddon Bridge.

This walk is organised by Create London as part of NHM Unlocked - the creation of the Natural History Museum’s new facility in Shinfield. The site will house around a third of the NHM’s collection alongside laboratories and collaboration space, unlocking the collections for research. There will be opportunities for the public to get involved in the grounds surrounding the research centre.

Attendee information:

Parking is available nearby.

Please wear sturdy footwear as some of the walk will be on uneven ground.

Dogs on lead are allowed.