Green wood carving
2024-10-02 08:00 - 2025-10-02 17:00 (Europe/London)
Explore and engage with nature in a new and creative way.
In this beautiful ancient woodland, we will learn, play and make at a gentle pace while immersing ourselves in nature and supporting our wellbeing. We will delve into the art of carving with green wood, utilising mallets and gouges. These sessions are suitable for beginners and improvers, the course includes all the tools and materials you will need to begin your journey into wood carving.
The session is led by Stephen Stockbridge, sculptor, maker and Forest School teacher.

We will use green wood, freshly cut with a high moisture content. This is a beautiful and easy way to carve wood.
You are supported through the whole process and encouraged to explore carving in your own way and at your own pace. This is an exercise in slowing down and settling your attention.
All tools and materials are supplied and at the end of the session you will have your first carving started.
The session goes ahead, whatever the weather, so please dress appropriately.
Please bring a flask or bottle of water.
The entrance to the part of Lesnes Abbey Woods we will be working in is off New Road SE2 0QQ, there will be signage to show you the way.

To register your interest please contact: You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

To find out more, visit the Creative Nature HQ website:
Creative Nature HQ

Spoon carving
2024-10-02 08:00 - 2025-10-02 17:00
Join us as we explore and engage with nature in a new and creative way.
In this beautiful ancient woodland, we will learn, play and make at a gentle pace while immersing ourselves in nature and supporting our wellbeing. We will be delving into the art of carving green wood into spoons using an axe, a straight knife and a crook knife. These sessions are suitable for beginners and improvers, the course includes all the tools and materials you will need to begin your journey into spoon carving.
The session is led by Stephen Stockbridge, sculptor, maker and Forest School teacher.

We will use green wood, freshly cut with a high moisture content. This is a beautiful and easy way to carve wood.
You are supported through the whole process and encouraged to explore carving in your own way and at your own pace. This is an exercise in slowing down and settling your attention.
All tools and materials are supplied and at the end of the session you will have your first carving started.
The session goes ahead, whatever the weather, so please dress appropriately.
Please bring a flask or bottle of water.
The entrance to the part of Lesnes Abbey Woods we will be working in is off New Road SE2 0QQ, there will be signage to show you the way.

To register your interest please contact: You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

To find out more, visit the Creative Nature HQ website:
Creative Nature HQ

Baby Sensory
2024-10-07 11:30 - 2025-10-07 12:15
A perfect way to meet new parents/carers and have fun with your baby
Baby Sensory provides ideas for creative play, massage, tummy time, movement, visual development, textures, scents and music in simple practical ways that can be easily repeated at home. We also use a combination of original and traditional songs and rhymes to develop early speech and language skills, and sensory signing activities to help you and your baby communicate from birth.
We want you to enjoy every second of your baby’s miraculous development. That’s why everything we do has a purpose.
They arrange the sensory area to match the distance at which your baby sees objects clearly.
They measure the decibel level of our instruments to make sure they are not too loud.
They soothe your baby at the end of every session by mimicking the sounds of the womb.
They welcome you to feed or cuddle your baby during the session.
The most miraculous advances in your baby’s brain structure occur in the first 3 months of life. During this period, an astonishing 2 million new brain cell connections are created every second. By the end of the first year, your baby’s brain will have doubled in volume as a direct result of sensory learning from birth!
They are incredibly lucky to have exceptional Class Leaders. Many were originally parents who attended Baby Sensory with their own babies. Their total belief and commitment are reasons why we’ve been able to grow this original concept and help babies reach their full potential.
If you are looking for an exciting activity which will be fun for you and will help with your baby’s sensory development contact our local booking team run by Natalie who is happy to arrange for you and your baby to visit one of our classes.
For booking information and prices please click the button below
More info and booking

Bayleaf Yoga
2024-10-09 19:30 - 2026-12-31 20:30
Friendly yoga classes for everybody – and every body.
Build your strength, find your balance and calm your busy mind. Ashley’s classes are accessible to all levels, whether you’re a beginner looking to establish the foundations or a seasoned yogi/ni seeking a challenge and a like-minded yoga community.
Ashley teaches Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga; honouring the ancient traditions with a creative twist inspired by her background in art and performance.
Classes include pranayama (breath work), meditation, asana (postures), and are layered with both yoga and modern philosophy to inspire your practice on the mat and beyond.
Whatever your background or ability, Ashley will support and empower you to explore and challenge yourself at your own pace.
Live online classes are also available during wet weather and for students who prefer to practice from the comfort of their own home.
Get your first class for £5 using the code FIRST5 Book your class here.
Ashley looks forward to welcoming you on the mat soon!

Bayleaf yoga

Walking groups
2024-10-11 08:00 - 2026-01-31 17:00
Explore Lesnes Abbey Wood’s 88 Hectares of park, woodland and heathland – see what you can discover!
Whether you would like to join a walking group or explore in your own time, Lesnes Abbey Woods is a beautiful place to walk whatever the season.
We have 3 different themed walks:
Active: (blue wayfinder) takes about a couple of hours and takes in most of the woods.
Learn: (yellow wayfinder) is a shorter walk that guides you round the key historic features in the park.
Explore: (green wayfinder) will take you into the woods and heathland.
Lesnes Abbey Woods run informal walking groups and provides the perfect opportunity to meet new people outdoors and also get fit. For more information please email You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

Pilates
2024-10-11 08:15 - 2025-12-31 09:15
Classes are every Friday 9.30am – 10.30am & Tuesday 8pm – 9pm.
Pilates is a method of exercise that consists of low-impact flexibility and muscular strength and endurance movements. Pilates emphasises proper postural alignment, core strength and muscle balance.
We aim to keep punctuality, so please show up 5-10 minutes before your class starts.
To book a class please go to our instructor’s website here:
Book a class

About Rosanna
STOTT Pilates Trained, Level 3 Mat Pilates Instructor, Exercise for Older Adults Instructor, HIIT Metafit Instructor.
Rosanna comes from a dance background, graduated in 2007 from Trinity Laban, London in Contemporary Dance Theatre BA with HONS.
She initially discovered Pilates during her dance training and has been teaching Pilates (STOTT) since 2016 when she completed her teaching training achieving the Level 3 Mat Pilates Instructor Diploma with Health and Fitness Education (YMCA Awards). Continually training with Merrithew Education.
She loved the way Pilates made her body feel and wanted to share that experience with others. She feels it is the foundation to any discipline or sport anyone wants to pursue.
She brings a determined but encouraging energy to all her clients and classes with an intuitive and focused style. I am YMCA certified, which means I’ve been trained in anatomy and physiology. I understand that no two bodies are alike and will work with you to get fit and healthy at the right pace”
Here are my links to website and social media:
https://www.rosannacorefitness.com https://www.facebook.com/RosannaPilates/ https://www.instagram.com/rosannacorefitness

Luna Gong Bath
2024-10-11 19:30 - 2025-12-31 20:30
Make time to relax and meditate
Want to relax, let go and float in effortless meditation?
Then join us, every other Friday @ 7:30pm for a New and Full Moon Gong Bath.
It’s a therapeutic, melodic, experience, where you lay back on your mat and let the harmonic sound waves wash over you. The vibrations of the sound waves relaxes and releases all tension, rests weary muscles and allows the mind to drop into a more silent space, creating room for greater awareness, clarity, calmness and boosts creativity.
Working with the New and Full Moons allows you to manifest your hearts desires. Embrace the law of attraction with New Moon intentions and Full Moon forgiveness. Tune into the sensations of your body and become mindful of what is arising in the here and now.
All you need to bring is a mat, blanket, pillow, drinking water and wear comfy clothes.
1 hour session – £10pp
To book:- Please either You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address. or call Dawn on 07961 795642

Tai-chi
2024-10-14 09:30 - 2025-12-31 10:30
Classes are every Monday – 9.30am -10.30am.
A great way to start the week attending Tai Chi classes run by the Taoist Arts Organisation.
Pathway to Health and Well-being
6 classes cost £54.00 and £10 for a single class. For Booking details please contact Oonagh either by:
Telephone: 07944558396
Email: You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

Art Club
2024-10-17 10:00 - 2025-10-17 13:00
Love painting and drawing? Why not come and work alongside fellow artists in the inspirational setting of Lesnes Abbey Woods
Every third Thursday of the month thereafter.
10am to 1 pm
£10.00 per session
All Welcome. Any age, any Ability, any Medium.
Come and be inspired by the Ancient Woodland and Romantic Abbey Ruins, or work on your own project in the company of other artists. To join you can either just turn up or email You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

Lesnes Trim-trail
2024-10-31 - 2026-12-31
Why not get fit using the Lesnes Abbey Woods trim-trail equipment?
You can do a good full body workout using our free trim trail equipment that is situated near the playground area. Each station has instructions on how to use the equipment. You can combine it with your run or walk through the woods and park. We also have a parkour area and space to practise basketball.
This facility is available 365 days per year from dawn to dusk.

Christmas Crafts in the Clearing
2024-12-23 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clearing, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Join Woodland Whispers under the canopy in The Clearing for some festive Christmas Crafting, marshmallows and some hot chocolate. What better way to spend a relaxing morning before the bustle of Christmas, making festive decorations in the woods at Lesnes Abbey. Some for all the family to do together. £9 per person. To book your places please email You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

Mid Week Walks
2025-01-07 13:15 - 2025-12-31 14:15 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Do you work from home? Why not give yourself a break and come to our Mid Week Walks Session organised by the Friends of Lesnes Abbey and Woods. Join them for a free, lunchtime walk. Starting 22 January 2025, then every 4th Wednesday of the month. Meet at Chestnuts Kiosk at 1.15pm.
Our experienced guide will lead you on a one hour circular walk through ancient woodland. Connect with nature, experience the changing seasons and enjoy the peace and quiet – a perfect way to spend your lunchtime (remember to dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear)
To reserve to space or to ask a question please email:- You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

Lore of the Wild Writing Retreat
2025-01-11 14:00
Join @bernadetterussell and @sophiejanesnaps from @loreofthewild in the heart of the woods for a series of outdoor creative writing workshops that will bring you closer to the wild within and without.
Start your new year with hope and inspiration.
This series of four workshops starting 11th January. Continues 18th 25th January and finishes on 01 February 2025 for adults will offer prompts and inspiration and gift you time to explore different perspectives and styles of writing whilst immersing yourself in the ancient woodland around you. They are open to anyone whether you are a professional writer already, have no experience at all, or if you are merely curious- everyone is welcome
Each session will take place outside and under cover in The Clearing, Lesnes Abbey Woods new outdoor learning space, around a roaring fire!
Lesnes Abbey Woods is an area of ancient woodland on the edge of London. Easily accessible by Thameslink and Elizabeth Line trains, this unique green oasis offers dramatic views across London, and dense wooded areas to get lost in. Walk though the ruined abbey and dig in the prehistoric fossil pit; those who came before are never far away and from Buzzards to woodpeckers, foxes to hedgehogs, the woods are alive with wild neighbours to bring you closer to the wildness inside you.
Your wild guides
Bernadette Russell is a performance storyteller who works in the oral tradition. She is the author of six non-fiction books, the latest “Conversation on Kindness” to be released March 2025 published by Elliott and Thompson. She has also written many plays, most recently for immersive theatre company Teatro Vivo. For them she created COMMON, a play with songs and poems about the enclosures acts of the 1600s featuring an army of ghost trees, an animal choir and many local historical characters. She is currently one of the storytellers at Butser Ancient Farm in Hampshire, and one of the the creative writing tutor at Treadwell’s Books. Previously she has told stories at many venues including Royal Albert Hall, Southbank Centre and National Theatre, as well as in the woods, parks and wild places of London and Hampshire.
www.bernadetterussell.com | @bernadetterussell

Lesnes Performs!
2025-04-14 00:00 - 2025-04-16 00:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
We are really excited to welcome back Ruined Theatre with these amazing opportunities for young people and children who are interested in performance.
Musical Kids – 14/15/16 April (5 – 11 years)
Come & learn some of the best musical theatre numbers from WICKED & MATILDA,
songs will be sent out in advance for participants to learn or be familiar with ahead of the class.
The aim of these sessions is for children to come and explore performing, we will cater for different levels of confidence, everyone is welcome.
Act Up – 15th and 16th of April (12 – 18 yrs)
A class for young people with an interest in acting, in this class we will look at drama games, scripts and improvisation. Participants will learn skills and how to have fun when approach acting!
A brilliant session to introduce young people to acting! Young people must be booked onto both sessions to continue what we have learnt the previous session.
Information for both classes:
Sessions are 50mins each and £4 per place
These are subsidised sessions as part of a grant from Bexley Council as part of #CelebratingBexley (normal cost would be £7).
Children must be booked onto all the sessions to continue what we have learnt the previous session
Classes will take place at Lesnes Abbey lodge, Abbey Wood, se2 0nx
To Book:
We have a limited number of places per workshop.
To GET YOUR PLACE you will need to email us to book, in reply we will send you additional information & payment details to secure your place. Please note courses will need to be paid for in advance.
EMAIL: You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

Power Yoga
2025-06-12 19:00 - 2026-06-12 20:00
Friendly yoga classes for everybody – and every body.
WHY POWER YOGA?
Welcome to my invigorating Power Yoga classes, where movement meets mindfulness in a dynamic fusion of strength, flexibility, and breath. These intelligently crafted sequences seamlessly flow from one posture to another, all harmonised with the rhythm of your breath. Prepare to experience a transformative journey that not only builds physical strength but also elevates your heart rate, leaving you energised and revitalised.In these Power Yoga classes, you will discover the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment – expect to break a sweat and perhaps share a few smiles along the way. These sessions are more than just a workout; they are an exploration of your body’s capabilities and a celebration of your progress. With opportunities to delve into inversions and engage in strength-building drills, you will unlock new dimensions of your practice and deepen your connection with both body and mind.Whether you are a regular practitioner or a newbie, these Power Yoga classes offer a space to challenge yourself, embrace the joy of movement, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Join me for an empowering and invigorating experience – it is not just a workout, it is a celebration of your strength and resilience. Come and have a go (at your pace)!

Julia Mihaylov Yoga

Lesnes Twlights Cygnet Committee
2025-06-20 17:00 - 21:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
We are excited to announce the return of Lesnes Twilights!
Located in the Monks Garden situated in the picturesque surroundings of the historic Lesnes Abbey Ruins our live band will be the amazing ‘Cygnet Committee’
“Playing songs from The Cure, to The Clash via Bowie, The Stones and More”
Doors/Bar/Food- from 5pm
Show starts: 7pm
Tickets start from £11 +booking fee (bring your own chair or blanket) or £16 + booking fee that includes tables and chairs
There will be a pay bar serving alcohol on the night and some yummy street food offerings too.
(please DO NOT bring any external alcohol onto site this will breach our licencing rules)

Little Faith - a short play about Lesnes Abbey
2025-07-13 11:30 - 13:30 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
The Ruined Theatre in association with Bexley Council & National Lottery Heritage Fund, marking the 500th anniversary since the closure of Lesnes Abbey, bring you a new play, Little Faith by Piers Black.
Set in the walls of the Lesnes Abbey Ruins this play is about community, faith and hope, taking you on a tale of how and why The Abbey closed 500 years ago.
Told with a cast of 3 actors this play is an engaging experience for all ages.
Come and learn more about the history of Lesnes Abbey with The Ruined Theatre.
Ages 5+
Running time 30 minutes. Performance times 11.30am or 1pm
Tickets:- £3.50 Adults & £2.00 Children

Lesnes Twilights Razmataz
2025-07-18 17:00 - 21:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Online sales have now closed. There will be limited tickets on the gate.
Summer is back! Why not get tickets for Lesnes Abbey Twilights – an early evening street food and music event.
Performance is 7-9pm but gates open to buy from our amazing street foodies and bars from 5pm!
We are excited to say that we have the amazing Razmataz – performing Motown hits and more! This amazing soulful duo will get the party started and we can’t wait!
There will be a licensed bar. You can either purchase a ticket for £11 and bring your own chair

Let's Just Create Holiday Programme
2025-07-28 00:00 - 2025-08-08 00:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Let’s Just Create is thrilled to offer a free Fashion and Textiles programme Monday – Thursday 10.45am – 14.45pm(occasional Friday) at Lesnes Abbey Lodge during the summer holiday as part of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) a free initiative for young people aged 11–16 in the Bexley borough (see below for eligibility) To book please email You need JavaScript enabled to see this email address.

This creative and engaging course is open to children and young people eligible for free school meals, and promises a fun-filled experience each day with a mix of fashion, design, and active play as well as Lunch!
What’s Included:
• Fashion & Textiles Workshops:
T-shirt design, bag charm making, customising clothes, denim design, tote bags, and more!
• Active Outdoor Games:
Team games, relay races, bulldog, rounders, and more energetic fun.
• Creative Showcases:
A woodland fashion show at Lesnes Abbey and photo shoots in the woods.
There’s something for everyone — come join us for a summer full of creativity, style, and fun!

What is HAF
The London Borough of Bexley is delivering the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, which is funded by the Department for Education.
The HAF programme provides a variety of fun activities, including sports, food making activities, arts and crafts and other exciting opportunities to learn and develop skills. It’s for school aged children and young people from Reception to Year 11, and runs during the Easter, summer and winter school holidays.
Places are funded for those who receive benefits-related Free School Meals (FSM) and attend a school in Bexley.
https://www.bexley.gov.uk/…/how-apply-free-school-meals

Little Faith – a play about our Lesnes Abbey
2025-08-31 10:30 - 11:10 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Little Faith – a play about our Lesnes Abbey presented by The Ruined Theatre
Little Faith is a play about how and why Lesnes Abbey closed under King Henry VIII told through the eyes of the local people of Abbey Wood in the 1500’s.
This short play with music, comedy and action set in the ruins of Lesnes is a beautiful experience to learn more about the Abbey and it’s history before it became our beloved Ruins, Be transported back to 1525 with and learn why the heart still beats today.
This play is suitable for all to enjoy although we do recommend for children to be ages 6+

Woodland Festival & Lesnes Abbey Farmers Market
2025-09-14 10:00 - 16:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Woodland Festival is part of the commemoration programme marking 500 years since the dissolution of Lesnes Abbey.
There’s loads to see and do!
A Medieval Grange: jester; cook and herbalist; wool spinners; medieval musicians with period instruments; green woodworkers and a working medieval forge.
Music and Dance: Folk Music; medieval dancing lesson; Morris dancing and some African drumming… and we’ll finish off with a grand procession for everyone to participate in.
Kid’s Favourites: Appearances by some well loved children’s characters… The Snow Sisters; exploratory trails; quizzes; get dressed up for the procession!
Explore the Woods and Nature: Talks; walks; woodland mindfulness; bees; butterflies; ponds and more.
Historical information: Archaeological walk; An exhibition on Lesnes Abbey;
Creativity: An art show; crafting and plenty more to have a go at.
Woodland Crafts: At “The Clearing” join in with creative crafting, woodland relaxation and other fun activities
Popular Farmer’s Market: fabulous food and drink and a special focus on crafts and the environment
This event has been made possible by a grant through the National Lottery Heritage Fund and players of the National Lottery.

Plant Gall Field Recorder Day
2025-09-20 10:00 - 16:00
A plant gall is an abnormal growth on plant tissues caused by organisms like insects, mites, fungi, bacteria, nematodes, or viruses. These growths typically form on leaves, stems, roots, or flowers as a plant’s response to irritation or chemical signals from the invading organism. Galls provide food and shelter for the organism inside. While they may look unusual, most galls are not harmful to the overall health of the plant.
Join like-minded people with an interest in recording wildlife observations for a day identifying and recording plant galls in an informal environment. Naturalists of all levels (from beginner to expert) will be able to share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording, all under the guidance of gall expert Tommy Root.

What will the day involve?

Practical experience of finding and identifying plant galls in the field.
Access to a knowledgeable plant gall specialist with the opportunity to discuss identification questions.
A chance to meet fellow like-minded people from a range of different disciplines.

What do I need to know in advance?

This event is aimed at adults only.
Attendance is free, but booking is essential as spaces are limited.
Recorders of all abilities are welcome.
Identification will take place in the field whenever possible, but some specimens may need to be collected to be observed in more detail and identified at a later date.
We’ll be outside for the whole day so please bring suitable clothing for the weather, as well as your lunch and any snacks you will require with you on the day.

Recording London’s Wildlife
All records collected will be added to the LNHS iRecord activity in order to share our findings with the site managers, Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL), London Natural History Society (LNHS) and relevant national recording schemes and societies.

This event is being run as a collaboration between the Biological Recording Company and Lesnes Abbey Woods as part of the Lesnes 500 project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Lesnes Abbey Farmers Market
2025-10-12 10:00 - 15:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Lesnes Abbey has its very own monthly farmers market!

This will be on the 2nd Sunday of each month and will feature locally sourced and handmade food, fresh produce, craft ales, as well as art and craft stalls, natural and eco-friendly products.

Grab a coffee from the great Chestnuts kiosk then browse our farmers market stalls such as local butchers, gourmet quiches, fresh bread, handcrafted soy candles, cheeses, preserves, plants, honey, coffee blends and more.

The Friends of Lesnes Abbey and Woods also give free walking tours of the abbey and woods (donations are always welcome)

Lesnes Abbey Lodge is a 10 minute walk from Abbey Wood Train Station. You can get to the site by buses 244, 299 and 311 and many more. There is Gayton Road Car Park 5 minutes walk from the site (£3.10 for 4 hours)

For more information and for stall news go to facebook.com/LesnesAbbeyFarmersMarket

This is event is brought to you by CC Events UK working partnership with Lesnes Abbey Lodge

Re-Style It Re-Use It
2025-10-20 00:00 - 2026-02-23 00:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Join us for our weekly Clothes Repair Workshop 4.15 – 6.15pm

Our workshop is a friendly and practical space dedicated to giving your wardrobe a longer life. Whether it’s a missing button, a small tear, or a worn patch, this workshop is all about repairing and refreshing your clothes so they can be loved and worn again.

It’s not a formal sewing lesson—you won’t be taught how to sew from scratch—but you will pick up useful tips, ideas, and confidence in mending.

This workshop is open to all ages (children accompanied by an adult) and is designed for anyone who wants to make their clothes last longer, reduce waste, and get creative with fabric. All basic materials and equipment will be provided, including needles, thread, scissors, fabric scraps, and iron-on patches. Simply bring along the items you’d like to repair—whether that’s one well-loved piece or a few items you’ve been meaning to fix. You’re also welcome to return each week with new items.

Repairing our clothes is about more than just saving money; it’s an act of sustainability. By mending instead of discarding, we reduce textile waste, cut down on fast fashion consumption, and celebrate the stories our clothes carry. With a little creativity, even the smallest repair can become a unique feature that adds character and charm.

Fungi Field Recorder Day
2025-10-28 10:00 - 16:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Join Dr Mark Spencer to record the fungi of Lesnes Abbey Woods and delve into the fascinating world of mycology.

About this event

Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that include moulds, yeasts, and mushrooms, and are classified in their own kingdom separate from plants and animals. They reproduce by releasing spores and obtain nutrients by breaking down organic matter, often playing a vital role as decomposers in ecosystems. Fungi can be beneficial, such as in food production, medicine (e.g. antibiotics), and nutrient recycling, but some species are harmful, causing diseases in plants, animals, and humans.
Join like-minded people with an interest in recording wildlife observations for a day identifying and recording fungi in an informal environment. Naturalists of all levels (from beginner to expert) will be able to share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording, all under the guidance of mycologist Mark Spencer.

What will the day involve?

Practical experience of finding and identifying fungi in the field.
Access to an experienced mycologist and the opportunity to discuss field mycology.
A chance to meet fellow like-minded people from a range of different disciplines.

What do I need to know in advance?

This event is aimed at adults only.
Attendance is free, but booking is essential as spaces are limited.
Fungi recorders of all abilities are welcome.
Identification will take place in the field whenever possible, but some fungi specimens may need to be collected and preserved for accurate identification.
This is not a foraging event. We have a strict no foraging policy on our recording events.
We’ll be outside for the whole day so please bring suitable clothing for all types of weather, as well as your lunch and any snacks you will require with you on the day.

This event is being run as a collaboration between the Biological Recording Company and Lesnes Abbey Woods as part of the Lesnes 500 project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Goblin of Lesnes
2025-10-29 00:00 - 2025-10-31 00:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
The Ruined Theatre, the team behind the previous Halloween hits Witches, Revolting Rymes and Hansel and Gretel now bring you another thrilling tale!
The Gobin of Lesnes, a new play by Jordan Paris directed by Nancy Sullivan.
Local girl Eliza has been locked in the tower of Lesnes by the greedy Abbott until she can spin straw into gold….
She can’t….
No one can!
….or can they?
Well certainly no human can… but maybe a goblin?…..
But what price will Eliza be prepared to pay for the Goblins gold.
Join us for this dark tale of the Goblin of Lesnes told during twilight performances with illuminations as part of Bexley’s Night Visions festival.
Sit in the ancient 800 year old walls of Lesnes Abbey Ruins with a backdrop of the ancient woods and be captivated as this reimagined classic is performed by amazing professional actors in this semi-staged reading … There isn’t a more perfect way to get into the spirit of Halloween.
This performances is suitable for all ages but those with tickets must be able to sit for the duration of the performance (1hr) so we recommend 6yrs+.
Dates and Times:
October 29th: 4.45pm
October 30th: 1pm
October 31st: 4.45pm
£6.50 – £9.00

Lost Buildings and Ancients Lives of Lesnes Abbey Talk
2025-11-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Our resident Archaeologist Anthony Thomas will share his current research delving deep into Lesnes Abbey’s past, reaching back to Prehistoric, Roman and late Saxo-Norman time. Go back in time with Anthony as he shares his findings about how the abbey was laid on top of buildings from earlier periods. Surveys completed 2025 have indicated a number of small stone built platform-floors, which seem to represent a series of muti-period sequences of several industrial style timber-framed and stone building structures associated with external kilns-ovens and other domestic activities.

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop
2025-12-05 12:00 - 18:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Using natural materials weave and create a beautiful Christmas Wreath to hang on your front door or gift as an early Christmas present. You will be the envy of all your neighbours!
The Workshops will take 2 1/2 hours starting at either Noon or 3.30pm
Please bring gardening gloves (Christmas Hats are optional)

Lesnes Abbey Christmas Market
2025-12-06 11:00 - 16:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Join us at Lesnes Abbey A Christmas Celebration 2025 to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
With a fabulous festive Marketplace across 2 gardens with gifts, produce, community stalls and more!! Live Entertainment all day with acts such as W*cked Green Witch and bubble witch sing a long, Rock Choir, Jolly Good Timers trumpet band and more!! Free Christmas make and do area Bauble decoratingWear your Best (or worst) Christmas Jumper for our new competition judged by the Mayor! Festive Street Food vendors,
Bars, cocktails and warming Boozy Baileys! Roasted Chestnuts Bouncy Castles and Games Plus the famous Lesnes Christmas Trail (pre-bookable) Indoor craft market
There will be a children’s Christmas Scavenger Trail at the market (pre bookable)

Lesnes Christmas Trail
2025-12-06 11:00 - 16:00 | Lesnes Abbey Lodge, New Road, London, London, SE2 0AX, United Kingdom
Our festive trail returns this Christmas to Lesnes Abbey. Solve the trail and win a small prize. It is a great activity to do with the family and to get into the festive spirit. You can also combine this with visiting our Christmas Celebration Market.
There are multiple hour time slots to choose from. Booking in advance is advised.
On the day look out for the grey gazebo (with white Lesnes Abbey logo) in the Christmas Market area opposite Chestnuts Kiosk
