BATTERSEA PARK: THE BEST BITS
When we’re not squeezing ourselves into the tightest spaces under your sinks, we head down to Battersea Park.
We love this place and think it’s only fair to let you in on the secrets about all this pocket of green in South West London has to offer.
Wildlife
The wildlife that populates Battersea Park is plentiful, which makes it a great place to bring the kids.
We love spotting the beautiful herons, cormorants and grebes as we wander around, along with squirrels, hedgehogs and bats.
The lakes are filled with interesting fish too, as well as frogs and terrapins.
Revisit wartime history
The park is registered as Grade II within the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens by English Heritage for its special historic interest.
Like most of London, Battersea Park suffered numerous bombings during the Second World War. There are a number of war memorials to pay your respects at, including the Sculpture by Kennington to commemorate the 24th London Division, and you can download a map of the specific locations that were bombed here.
Sports
In the summer, nothing beats a boat ride.
There’s plenty to fill up the rest of your year too, including all weather football pitches, tennis courts and brilliant walking, cycling and running routes.
Our favourite route to run is the 2.8km Carriage Drive circuit. Start out at Albert Gate, then run to Rosery Gate, then Pierpoint, before heading back to Albert Gate.
The Pump House Gallery
This art space is a piece of art in itself. The impressive Grade II listed building was built in 1861 to supply water to the lakes and the then new Battersea Park.
For years, it was left derelict but reopened in 1992 following a £400, 000 restoration project by English Heritage and Wandsworth Council.
Today, you can see some fantastic exhibitions at the Pump House Gallery, and the centre organises fun Sunday workshops off the back of them that are suitable for the entire family.
La Gondola al Parco
This eatery serves home-style Italian food by the lake. As the days get chillier, it’s the perfect spot to watch the ducks and boats go by with a hot cup of Italian coffee.
The Rustic Bridge
In the Victorian times, rustic bridges were hugely popular. They gave city dwellers the feeling that they were in the depths of the countryside, as opposed to the metropolitan hustle and bustle.
Battersea Park still features a rustic bridge, which makes for an ideal photo opportunity to seize before you head home!