Victoria Recreation Ground, Barnet

Victoria Recreation Ground is a public park in New Barnet, in the London Borough of Barnet, in the north of Greater London. The council counts it among its "Premier Parks", a label given to the borough's best-equipped and most valued green spaces. It covers a little under six hectares and mixes open grass with sport, play and leisure facilities, so it works as a local meeting point as much as a place for a stroll.

What kind of park is it?

This is a classic Victorian recreation ground, laid out for everyday public use rather than as a showpiece garden. Part of its original design survives: a circular mound with a perimeter walk, once planted as a rose garden, which gives the park a quiet corner of formal landscaping amid the sports areas. Entry is free and the park has no restricted opening times, so you can drop in whenever it suits you.

What can you do there?

Families with children are well served. There are separate play areas for under-sevens and for ages seven to thirteen, plus a water play area that is popular in warm weather. Older kids and teenagers can use the skateboard area and the basketball hoops. The park also has a junior playing pitch for football and similar games, and an outdoor gym for adults who prefer to exercise in the open air.

A bowling green adds a more traditional pastime, and the outdoor tennis courts are run by the nearby leisure centre, so check there for how to book a court.

New Barnet Leisure Centre

A modern leisure centre stands within the park. After a large investment by Barnet Council, it opened with a community pool of 25 metres and six lanes, a learner pool, a health and fitness suite, a café and a library run in partnership with the council. Its development also brought new tennis courts and a multi-use games area to the grounds. If the weather turns, the centre gives you an indoor option without leaving the park.

Is there a walking route?

Yes. The Pymmes Trail, a local walking route, passes through the park, so it makes a convenient stop for anyone following the trail through north London. The route is a gentle way to connect green spaces on foot.

Practical tips

• Getting there: the park is in New Barnet, a residential suburb in the north of London, and has its own car park.
• Best for: family outings, casual sport, a picnic on the grass or a walk with the dog.
• Time needed: an hour is enough for a walk; allow longer if you plan to swim, play sport or let children use the playgrounds.

Frequently asked questions

Is Victoria Recreation Ground free to enter? Yes. It is a public park with unrestricted opening times.

Is there anything for children? Yes: two play areas by age group, a water play area and a skateboard area.

Can I swim there? New Barnet Leisure Centre, inside the park, has a 25-metre community pool and a learner pool.

Is it the same as Victoria Park in Finchley? No. That park was once also called Victoria Recreation Ground, but it is a separate site in a different part of Barnet.

Is there a car park? Yes, the park has car parking.