Spring is Here!
Spring is here! The days are getting longer, flowers are blooming, and it’s the perfect time to get outside, stay active, and connect with others. Spending time outdoors is great for your body and mind. A bit of sunshine and gentle movement can lift your mood and help you feel more energetic.
Whether you live in Hornchurch, Upminster, Rainham, Romford, or Emerson Park, there are plenty of local options to help you keep moving and feel your best. Here’s a simple guide to local places and activities to making the most of spring in Havering, while staying active and social.
Where to Walk in Havering This Spring
Walking is free, easy, and one of the best ways to stay healthy. Here’s where you can enjoy a stroll:
- Hornchurch Country Park has easy paths perfect for gentle walks. The Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre (01708 520364) organizes regular senior-friendly nature walks.
- Harrow Lodge Park in Hornchurch hosts weekly Havering Health Walks. They’re free and led by friendly volunteers. Just call 01708 796696 to join.
- Upminster Park has a welcoming walking group that meets every Tuesday morning. Contact Upminster Community Centre on 01708 221437 for details.
- Romford town center has an indoor walking route at The Mercury Shopping Centre – perfect for rainy days! Email [email protected] to join their regular walks.
Swimming and Water Exercise in Havering
Swimming is brilliant for joints and overall fitness. These Havering venues offer senior-specific sessions:
- Hornchurch Sports Centre runs dedicated senior swim times and gentle water exercise classes. Call them on 01708 454135.
- Romford Leisure Centre has “Silver Splash” sessions on Monday and Wednesday mornings – a favorite with local residents. Phone 01708 766211.
- Abbs Cross Health & Fitness in Hornchurch offers water exercise classes designed especially for older participants. Give them a ring on 01708 443939.
Gentle Exercise Classes Near You
Looking for something more structured? Try these local options:
- Chair yoga at Age UK Havering runs across Romford, Hornchurch, and Rainham locations. It’s perfect if you have mobility issues. Call 01708 796600.
- Tai chi at Upminster Methodist Church happens every Thursday morning and is brilliant for balance and relaxation. Contact 01708 222278.
- Elm Park Community Association runs gentle yoga that many older adult enjoy. Email [email protected] for times.
Meet New Friends While Staying Active
Staying active is more fun with others! These Havering groups combine exercise with socializing:
- Emerson Park Active Retirement Association offers dancing, table tennis, and more. Call 01708 447803 to join the fun.
- Romford Bowls Club in Lodge Farm Park welcomes new members for gentle outdoor exercise. Ring 01708 740299.
- Hornchurch & Upminster U3A has walking groups, dancing classes, and cycling clubs. Visit their website for their full program.
Getting Started Is Easy
Not sure where to begin? These local services can help:
- Havering Health Trainers give one-to-one support to help you become more active. Call 01708 796696 for free advice.
- Tapestry Day Centres in Hornchurch and Romford offer exercise programs specifically designed for older adults. Contact 01708 796600.
- Everyone Active offers special over-60s discounts at all Havering leisure centers including Hornchurch, Romford, and Rainham facilities. Ask about their senior memberships!
Get Extra Support When You Need It
If getting out and about is difficult, home care services like Certified Care can help. Our carers can assist with:
Getting to social activities
Light exercise and companionship
Daily tasks, so you have more time and energy for the things you enjoy
Next Steps
If you think your loved one might benefit from support going out to stay active and connected, then contact Certified Care to arrange a non-obligatory care assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many activities like the Havering Health Walks and community gardening projects are completely free. Others, such as swimming sessions at Hornchurch Sports Centre or Romford Leisure Centre, offer special discounted rates for older people. The Everyone Active centers in Havering provide over-60s memberships with reduced prices, and many groups like Age UK Havering offer free trial sessions before any commitment is needed.
Absolutely! Many Havering activities are specifically designed for those with limited mobility. Chair yoga sessions at Age UK Havering are perfect if you find standing difficult, while water exercise classes at Abbs Cross and Hornchurch Sports Centre provide gentle, joint-friendly options. The Havering Health Trainers (01708 796696) can help find activities tailored to your specific needs and abilities.
Several options are available for older people or people with disability who need transportation help. Tapestry offers a door-to-door transport service for their day center activities in Hornchurch and Romford. Dial-A-Ride also offer free rides to appointments. The Havering Community Transport scheme provides affordable rides to regular activities – call 01708 433838 to arrange this. Many groups like the Emerson Park Active Retirement Association also organize carpooling among members, so don’t let transportation concerns keep you from staying active this spring!
