Gladstone Park

Gladstone Park is a public park in Dollis Hill, in the Brent borough of north-west London. Set on a hill, it grew out of the old Dollis Hill House estate and has been open to the public since 1901. It makes an easy escape from central London, with wide green spaces to explore at a relaxed pace.

Who was the park named after?

The park honours William Gladstone, the Liberal Prime Minister who spent many weekends at Dollis Hill House. The local authority, Willesden Rural District Council, bought the house and surrounding land in 1898 and laid out a public park. The Earl of Aberdeen opened it in May 1901.

What happened to Dollis Hill House?

The house dates from the 1820s and was first home to the Finch family. Over the years it served as a restaurant and, during the First World War, as a hospital. It later fell into disrepair and was badly damaged by fire in 1996, then demolished in 2012. Low brick walls from the original structure still remain on the site.

What is there to see and do?

According to Brent Council, the park has meadows, tree-lined avenues, a walled garden, a duck pond, sports pitches, tennis courts, an outdoor gym and children's playgrounds. You will also find a cafe, toilets and a car park. The Stables Arts Centre and Gallery operates in the former estate buildings, and the park hosts events such as a family fun day.

Art is part of the visit too. A Holocaust memorial by the artist Fred Kormis stands here (sources date it to around 1968-1970), along with a wooden sculpture called the "Brentosaurus", commissioned by the borough in 1995.

Has the park been restored?

Yes. A Heritage Lottery Fund refurbishment programme in 2003-04 restored many of the park's historic features.

Getting there and opening times

The nearest Tube station is Dollis Hill on the Jubilee line, and several bus routes serve the area. The park has no restricted opening hours, although the walled garden is locked at dusk.

Frequently asked questions

Is Gladstone Park free to enter? Yes. It is a public park with unrestricted access. Only the walled garden is locked at dusk.

Is it good for children? Yes. There are playgrounds, a duck pond, open meadows and family events.

Where can I get a coffee? There is a cafe in the park, plus toilets and a car park.

Can I play tennis or work out? Yes. The park has tennis courts, sports pitches and an outdoor gym.

How do I get there by Tube? Take the Jubilee line to Dollis Hill station, a short distance from the park.