Springfield Park was opened in 1905, formed from the grounds of three private houses - the white, Grade-II listed Springfield House is the only one that remains standing. The 40-acre park takes its name from the unique geology of the area, separated from the Walthamstow Wetlands and Marshes by the River Lea. Just inside the park on its south-western corner is The Glass House, an original Victorian glass house with retractable skylights that give the feel of a night under the stars whilst under cover from the elements. Understandably, The Glass House is a very popular venue available for private hire for events such as weddings.
The paths through the park take in beautiful natural views as you venture further in, where you will find the Springfield Park Bandstand and children's play area by the riverside, where you walk over the Springfield Crossing and into the Wetlands. In the Wetlands you will find plenty of wildlife but, if you want to stay inside the park, families also enjoy walking by the Springfield Park Pond or setting down somewhere for a picnic (there is also a café located inside Springfield House). Environmental education charity EcoACTIVE operate classes and workshops for schools and community groups inside Springfield Park, and visitors can freely pay a visit to the Growing Communities Springfield Market Garden where locals grow fruit and vegetables. What’s more, you can join The Hackney Society for guided walks that explore the history of the area, past the park’s beginnings and the areas industrial days, all the way back to when woolly mammoths roamed the Lea valley.
Springfield Park’s paths are popular with joggers, and there is a tennis court beside the river, but the main draw for sporting enthusiasts is the Lea Rowing Club.
Details
- Address:
- Upper Clapton Rd
- E5 9EF
- Transport:
- Clapton, Stamford Hill and Stoke Newington Overground stations