Deptford Park

Deptford Park is a public green space of about seven hectares in Deptford, south-east London. It is owned and managed by the London Borough of Lewisham and serves as one of the main open spaces for the surrounding streets, a densely built part of the capital where a lawn and a row of mature trees mean a great deal.

What is Deptford Park known for?

The park is a Victorian creation that has kept much of its original structure. Its perimeter path, lined with mature London plane trees, still frames the open grass in the middle. The land was once a market garden belonging to the Evelyn family estate, a reminder of how agricultural this part of the Thames riverside used to be before industry and housing took over.

Who built the park and when?

The London County Council bought the land in 1884, and the park opened to the public on 7 June 1897. The layout was designed by Lieutenant Colonel J. J. Sexby, then Chief Officer of the council's Parks Department. His design included several built features that have not survived, among them a central bandstand. The basic plan, however, remains easy to read on the ground: a broad open centre, a path running around the edge and trees planted along it.

What can you do in Deptford Park?

The council lists a football pitch, an outdoor gym, a children's play area and a wide perimeter path suitable for walking, jogging or pushing a pram. There is a small community orchard, and public toilets are provided on site, although their opening times are limited, so check the council's current information before relying on them.

Two phases of improvement works have refreshed the park in recent years. The first replaced the boundary with new railings, brick pillars and gates. The second added a new children's playground, a formal paved area and seating, which made the park more comfortable for families and for anyone who simply wants to sit for a while.

Is there any public art?

Yes. A steel sculpture called Blue Iridescence, installed in 2008, stands in the park. The park has also appeared among Green Flag Award listings, the national benchmark for well-run parks and green spaces in the United Kingdom.

How do you get to Deptford Park?

The main entrance is on Evelyn Street. The nearest stations are Deptford and Surrey Quays, and both are within reasonable walking distance, so the park is easy to combine with a visit to other parts of Deptford or Rotherhithe.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Deptford Park? About 7 hectares.

Who owns it? The London Borough of Lewisham.

When did it open? On 7 June 1897.

Is there a playground? Yes, a newly built children's play area, along with an outdoor gym and a football pitch.

Is the bandstand still there? No. The original central bandstand has not survived.

Where is the entrance? The main entrance is on Evelyn Street.