Broomfield Park

Broomfield Park is a historic public park in Palmers Green, in the London Borough of Enfield, north London. Listed Grade II, it grew out of the grounds of Broomfield House and remains one of the most interesting green spaces in this part of the city.

What is the history of Broomfield Park?

The land belonged to several notable families. By the end of the 16th century the estate was held by a wealthy London alderman, Sir John Spencer. Joseph Jackson bought it in the early 17th century, and the family went on to improve and enlarge both house and grounds in the 18th century. The formal gardens west of the house, which appear on John Rocque's 1754 map, probably date from this period. The estate later passed to the Powys family.

In 1903 the gardens were converted into a public park for local residents. More features followed over the years, including a Garden of Remembrance that opened in 1929.

What can you see in the park?

The most distinctive feature is the chain of formal lakes, a survivor of the old garden layout. The park also has listed historic walls, a gazebo and a stable yard. A later boating pond lies to the north, and there is a walled enclosure with a pavilion.

On the East Lawn stands Broomfield House, a Grade II* building. It has suffered at least three significant fires since 1984, and its surviving shell is now held up by scaffolding. It is a sobering sight and an important part of the local heritage story.

What facilities does the park offer?

Broomfield Park works well for a whole afternoon out. You will find:

• a conservatory and a bandstand,
• a children's playground and an outdoor gym,
• sports courts and bowling greens,
• a community orchard,
• a community cafe.

What is planned for the house?

Enfield Council is running the "Unlocking Broomfield Park" project, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. It aims to restore the relationship between the house and the historic park and to involve the community in commemorating the heritage of Broomfield House.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Broomfield Park? In Palmers Green, in the London Borough of Enfield, in the north of the city.

Is it a public park? Yes. The grounds have been open to the public as a park since 1903.

Can you go inside Broomfield House? The building was badly damaged by fire and its shell is supported by scaffolding, so at present it can only be viewed from outside.

Is there anything for children? Yes, there is a playground, as well as sports courts and an outdoor gym.

Can I get food or a drink? Yes, the park has a community cafe.

Who is it best suited to? Garden-history fans, walkers, families, and anyone who has seen London's headline sights and wants a more local, less touristy side of the capital.

Broomfield Park combines a historic garden landscape, the traces of a turbulent house history and everyday recreation for the neighbourhood, making it a rewarding stop for visitors who want to look beyond central London.