Enfield is a large town with a great deal of charm. There are many things to do in Enfield and this has been the case for hundreds of years. In 1303, Enfield was granted a licence which allowed the town to hold a weekly market and two annual fairs, one on St Andrew’s Day and another in September. So, way back in the 14th Century, Enfield was already a wonderful place to visit. 

The history of Enfield remains for visitors to see and locals to enjoy but it has had modern day conveniences and attractions added to it as the years have passed.

Within this article we will be discussing the top things to do in Enfield, giving visitors a comprehensive guide of where to go and what to see and maybe sparking a desire in our fellow locals to go and see some of the wonderful things our town has on offer.  

1.Revel in the Past at Enfield’s Historical Sites

Enfield has a very rich history dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. The manor of Enfield was owned by Ansgar the Stallar, who was one of the wealthiest and powerful nobles in the late Anglo-Saxon period.  He battled in the Battle of Hastings and escaped badly wounded, going on to lead the defence of London. 

Enfield’s history is not lost to the past as there remains many historical sites around Enfield. 

Forty Hall is a prime example of one of Enfield’s historical sites which is open to visitors year round, along with having events on throughout the year. Built in 1632 by Sir Nicholas Rainton, the former Mayor of London, it sits on the site of Elsyng Palace which belonged to Henry VIII and was the childhood residence of King Edward VI and Queen Elizabeth I. Although the Hall went on to have many different owners, all who changed and reworked it in some way, there are many architectural features that remain from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. 

Forty Hall is also home to Forty Hall Museum, in which you can delve deeper into the history of the hall and the families who lived within it until the early 1950s. 

Along with Forty Hall Museum, there is the Museum of Enfield who curates the local history of Enfield. You can find their collections on display within various places in Enfield including Forty Hall and Dugdale Art Centre. 

If you are a lover of history, you will find many things to do in Enfield.       

2. Embrace Nature at Enfield’s Parks and Open Spaces

Within it’s top things to do, Enfield also has many beautiful parks and open spaces in which you can immerse yourself in natural beauty and take part in some leisure activities such as walking, having a picnic or playing sports. 

Within a visit to Enfield Town Park, you get to take in the natural beauty all around you whilst also enjoying some of Enfield’s history. Enfield Town Park was first opened over 100 years ago in 1902 so it is steeped in the history of the town. 

Another Enfield park with a lot of history is Trent Park which is 413 hectares of rolling meadows, enchanting brooks, exquisite lakes and ancient woodland. Dating back to the Domesday Book, it has remained unchanged since this time which gives it a rare and distinctive character.  

Capel Manor Gardens are a must see if you enjoy being within the wonder of nature. Capel Manor Gardens has 40 themed gardens and a mini zoo, situated around 30 acres of land. The gardens do have opening times which change depending on the season so make sure to check their website before visiting.  

3. Indulge in Retail Therapy at Enfield’s Shopping Venues

If you are more about indulging in some retail therapy, do not worry! There are many things for you to do in Enfield too. And Enfield has shopping venues that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. 

Palace Gardens Shopping Centre is great if you are looking for the well known highstreet shops. It has H&M, Marks & Spencers, New Look, Next, Waterstones, Boots and many more shops, all under one roof. It also has a variety of cafes to choose from to give you some sustenance during your shopping trip. 

If you would like to shop in a place with a little bit more history, then the vibrant Enfield Market is the place to go. Dating back to 1303, at Enfield Market you can find household staples alongside handmade, specialist goods. Open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, it is a wonderful place to visit to get a sense of the Enfield community. 

4. Experience the Cultural Scene with Enfield’s Theatres and Art Galleries

Enfield also has a lively art scene with galleries and theatres within the local area. There is the Dugdale Arts Centre which, as we’ve already mentioned, holds some of the collections from the Museum of Enfield but it also hosts a variety of events from activities such as their weekly Knit and Natter to educational workshops for children, such as Stop Motion Animation. 

If you are more interested in a visit to the theatre, then the Chickenshed Theatre is the place for you. Priding itself on being a theatre for absolutely everyone, the Chickenshed Theatre has been putting on shows and events for the last 50 years. 

5. Taste the Local Flavor at Enfield’s Cafés and Restaurants

And all the foodies need not despair as there are many cafes and restaurants waiting to be visited within Enfield. 

There is a rich culinary landscape in Enfield, with a large range of cuisines to try, which reflects the diverse nature of the area. 

Saathi’s offers delicious Indian cuisine with a warm friendly atmosphere. The Meeting Bar & Restaurant offers the very best in Thai cuisine and hospitality. Aksular offers divine Mediterranean food from Halloumi Salads to Moussaka. The Navigation has a variety of things to choose from, including a solid meat-free menu. 

With so much variety on offer, you will find a delicious place to dine out in Enfield. 

Top Things To Do In Enfield

There are so many things to do in Enfield. It is a town which has a unique blend of historical and modern attractions, with many beautiful natural spots and wonderful places to eat thrown in for good measure. 

If you are visiting Enfield, you will easily find something interesting to do and see.

If you are local, you are so lucky to have so many vibrant places to visit within your hometown. 

We hope you have found our guide to the top things to do in Enfield helpful. Let us know if you think we have missed anything! 

If you are local and ever find yourself in need of self-storage, our Enfield store is here to help you with that too. Simply give us a call on: 02039 402 147 or head to our website.