Panshanger

Panshanger lies on the eastern edge of Welwyn Garden City in the borough of Welwyn Hatfield, Hertfordshire. The area centers on Panshanger Park and Country Park, a mix of parkland, woodland and lakes created by past gravel workings along the River Mimram. A network of footpaths and cycle tracks follows the river and links reedbeds, open grassland and pockets of veteran trees. The lakes attract waterfowl and waders; visitors use the park for walking, running and birdwatching. Park signage notes the site's industrial past and its ongoing management for wildlife.

The landscape retains traces of the 18th-century estate layout, including long parkland vistas and an avenue of oak trees that once led to Panshanger House. Parts of the estate were reshaped during mineral extraction and later restored to form the present lakes and wetlands. Access is via entrances with parking and marked trails that connect the park to surrounding housing and farmland. Local volunteers and council rangers run surveys and events during the year.