South Park, London

South Park is a public recreation park in south Fulham, in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. It sits off Peterborough Road, close to the Thames, and covers roughly 8 hectares. It is a neighbourhood green space with sports pitches, courts, a playground and quiet paths under mature trees. It should not be confused with the American animated series of the same name, or with other parks called South Park elsewhere in the UK.

How did the park come about?

The land was once a farm, known as Southfields or Broom House Farm. In the 19th and early 20th centuries the area was also tied to Veitch & Sons, one of the leading nursery firms of its day. The site was bought in 1901 with a grant from the London County Council, with a covenant keeping it as open space. It opened to the public in 1904, although sources differ on the exact date, and some give 24 May.

The layout was drawn up by Francis Wood, the Fulham Borough Engineer. Much of it survives, though the bandstand and some later buildings have gone and the lake has been filled in.

What is there to see?

Surviving historic features include an Edwardian wooden shelter, a 1950s cricket pavilion, shrub borders and a rose garden. Lime and plane trees line the paths and give welcome shade in summer.

What facilities does it offer?

• a play area for younger children,
• a cricket pitch and football pitches,
• four adult tennis courts,
• netball and basketball courts and a floodlit multi-use games area,
• an outdoor gym,
• a dog exercise area,
• a community garden with beehives,
• a pavilion with toilets,
• the Sand Ends Arts and Community Centre.

A perimeter path of about one kilometre suits a short walk or a jog. A nursery for children aged 2 to 5 runs from the cricket pavilion. The park holds a Green Flag Award, the benchmark for well-managed green spaces.

Getting there

The nearest stations are Parsons Green, Putney Bridge and Imperial Wharf. There is no on-site parking, so the Tube, rail or a walk is the best option.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry free? Yes, the park is public and open to everyone. Only bookings for sports facilities, such as the tennis courts, may carry a fee.

Can I bring a dog? Yes, there is a dedicated dog exercise area.

Is it good for families? Yes. There is a playground, plenty of lawn and toilets in the pavilion.

Can I play sport here? Yes. Courts, pitches, an outdoor gym and the perimeter path are all available.

Is it a tourist attraction? It is a local park rather than a sightseeing stop, but it makes a pleasant break during a stay in west London, especially near Putney Bridge and the river.