Frequently Asked Questions

Many of the sessions are available all year round, but some are best done at certain times of the year. For example, the Teeny Weeny Tadpole (EYFS) session can only be done when there are tadpoles in the pond from March till late June. Please note also that the bluebell peak flowering time is mid April till early May. Therefore, it is best to check the best time of year to do the session you’d like to book.

The classroom in the Bluebell Centre has space for 30 children and accompanying adults. If you would like to bring more than one class to the reserve at the same time this is possible.

Yes. We encourage schools to bring their classes for the whole day so the children can really get to experience the nature and different habitats at the reserve. For example, they can spend the morning in the meadow and pond dipping and the afternoon in the woodland.

Morning sessions are usually 10am-12 and afternoon sessions 12.30-2.30pm, but we are flexible and happy to move the timings to suit you.  Half day sessions are two hours long.

The environmental education sessions are delivered by our Environmental Education Team.

All session leaders have DBS checks and First Aid training.  All the sessions are planned with a full risk assessment, which is provided upon booking.

Primary school sessions are charged at £176 per half day session (£296 for a full day session) and secondary schools are charged at £200 per half day session (£394 for a full day session).

All invoices should be paid as soon as possible as bookings are only confirmed once payment is received.  If you have to cancel the session for any reason this must be done at least 28 days before the date of the session to get a refund or to rebook. Further information is in our Terms and Conditions, which are sent to groups on booking.

We offer bespoke sessions to suit your needs. Contact us at to find out more about what we can offer.

Bringing a class to Perivale Wood several times across the academic year offers unique benefits. Pupils can experience the reserve through the changing seasons, observe wildlife at different stages of its life cycle, and build a deeper understanding of environmental topics over time.

We offer bespoke programmes tailored to your class’s needs, with multiple sessions designed to complement your curriculum and enhance learning through hands-on experiences in nature.

To discuss how we can support your teaching and create a programme for your class, please contact us at education@selbornesociety.org.uk

Yes you can bring food to the reserve, but are reminded that all litter should be collected and taken away. There are no bins at the reserve.

Our sessions take place outdoors in all weathers, so it’s important that children are dressed comfortably and appropriately. The right clothing makes a big difference to their experience and ensures they can enjoy every part of their visit to Perivale Wood. Please check the weather forecast before attending and prepare your group accordingly.

Clothing essentials:

• Waterproofs: A waterproof jacket is highly recommended, along with waterproof trousers or an all-in-one suit. These provide protection from both the elements (rain, mud, puddles) and from woodland plants such as brambles and nettles.

• Footwear: Strong, waterproof shoes are essential. Wellies are ideal in wet or muddy conditions.

• Long sleeves and trousers: Everyone (including adults) must wear long trousers and long-sleeved tops to protect against scratches and stings from nettles or brambles.

Seasonal protection:

• Sun safety: In sunny weather, please ensure children arrive with sun lotion already applied and bring a sun hat or cap.

• Insect repellent: During late spring, summer, and early autumn, insect repellent is essential.

By being well prepared, children (and adults!) can focus on exploring, learning, and enjoying nature—whatever the weather.

We would only cancel the session in extremely bad weather, e.g. in high winds when it would be dangerous to enter the woodland. If there is light rain we continue with the session. We also have use of the classroom in the Bluebell Centre and the session can be adapted so that more time is spent inside.

Yes it is possible to do this, but your visit must be booked in advance. The reserve is gated and locked and so someone must be onsite to let you in and out of the reserve.

By Car
There is on-street parking available outside the reserve.

• Weekends: Parking is unrestricted.

• Weekdays: A residents’ permit is required between 9–10am and 2–3pm.

• The nearest unrestricted parking is on Bilton Road, about a 5-minute walk away.

• Pay-and-display parking is also available at Perivale Underground Station.

By Public Transport

• Underground: The reserve entrance is a short walk north from Perivale Station (Central Line).

• Buses: The 297 stops closest to the reserve. Routes E5 and 95 also serve the area, stopping at Teignmouth Gardens, just a short walk away.

Entrance
The entrance to Perivale Wood is via Sunley Gardens, Perivale (UB6 7PE).

Most of the paths are suitable for wheelchair and pram use, although if the weather has been bad then there are some sections that become muddy. The Bluebell Centre and toilets have disabled access.

Perivale Wood is open to members of the Selborne Society. The reserve’s perimeter is fenced and the only entrance is via a locked gate on Sunley Gardens. Information about how to become a member can be found at www.selbornesociety.org.uk

Information about the Selborne Society and how to become a member can be found at SelborneSociety.org.uk

Yearly membership costs £10 for an adult, £15 for a couple at the same address, £3 per child.