Southwark Park London is one of the largest green spaces in Bermondsey and Rotherhithe in South East London. It first opened in 1869 and features gardens, a boating lake, sports facilities and wide open green spaces.
It was one of the first public parks created in South East London. The park was designed to give local residents access to green space during a time when the surrounding area was heavily industrialised.
I live right near Southwark Park in London and for the longest time I didn’t really appreciate it. However, since working from home more I have really come to appreciate it as a tranquil place to escape.
Where is Southwark Park?
Southwark Park is located in South East London, nestled between Bermondsey and Rotherhithe.
Nearest Stations
The nearest stations to Southwark Park are:
- Surrey Quays Overground Station
- Bermondsey Underground Station
- Canada Water Overground + Underground Station
- Rotherhithe Overground Station
Nearest Bus Stops
The nearest bus stops are either on Jamaica Road or Southwark Park Road. The C10, 47, 188, 381 and P12 all stop outside the Park. All but the P12 stop on Jamaica Road, and the P12 stops on Southwark Park Road.
What to See in Southwark Park London
Southwark Park is huge and there’s so much to see. The park itself is split into two. The top section has a bandstand, a bowling green, some tennis courts and some green space.
The lower part has a lake, the Ada Salter Garden, a children’s playground, a cafe, an art gallery, toilets and an athletics centre. During the summer you can hire a boat and go out on the lake if you want to. I haven’t tried this yet – mainly because the geese seem to guard the lake quite seriously!
The Ada Salter Garden is such a relaxing place to sit and have a quiet moment. I see people doing yoga there sometimes too. I didn’t take a photo of it because there were people sitting there but it overlooks the lake.
Southwark Park Art Gallery
Southwark Park Art Gallery is a contemporary art gallery and hosts lots of exhibitions. You can find out more about it here.
Ada Salter Garden
Ada Salter was the Mayor of Bermondsey. English social reformer, environmentalist, pacifist and Quaker, President of the Women’s Labour League and President of the National Gardens Guild. She was one of the first women councillors in London, the first woman mayor in London and the first Labour woman mayor in the British Isles.
Ada Salter sought to replace slums with model council houses and create an environment that was good for the body and mind. She planted trees across the borough and organised music, sport and games events for community participation.
Due to her connection with Bermondsey, there’s a lovely garden dedicated to her inside the park. It’s a more peaceful section, which looks very beautiful when the flowers bloom in late spring.
Bandstand
The bandstand in the top section of the park looks very grand. Best seen during a warm, hazy sunset.
Lake
There’s a lovely boating lake at Southwark Park to enjoy. During the spring you can see all the ducklings wandering around.
Playground
There’s a small enclosed playground within the park as well.
Bowls club
Southwark Park has its very own bowls club which is usually open between 2pm – 4pm daily. You can find out more here.
Southwark Park Pavilion Cafe
Take in the views over the lake as you sip on a warm coffee. Or tuck into a fresh sourdough pizza with friends at the cafe in Southwark Park.
Southwark Park Sports and Athletics Centre
The athletics centre is home to a six-lane running track and a fully equipped gym.
Things to Do in Southwark Park London
The park is huge so there’s something for everyone. Just a few ideas include:
- Taking a walk around the lake
- Picnicking on one of the lawns
- A game of tennis
- Or a game of bowls if you’re feeling less energetic
- Grab a coffee from the cafe and catch up with a friend
- Run a Park Run here every Saturday
- Hire a boat and take it out on the lake
- Visit the art gallery
- Make use of the free gym equipment outside
- Or pay a visit to the Sports and Athletics Centre
- Local tip: If you visit on a sunny day, bring a coffee and sit in the Ada Salter Garden. It’s one of the quietest corners of the park and feels surprisingly peaceful considering how close it is to central London.
Southwark Park Opening Times
Southwark Park opens every day at 7:30am and it closes at sunset which obviously varies throughout the year. In December it closes at 4:30pm but in June and July it’s open until 9:30pm.
Southwark Park FAQs
Is Southwark Park worth visiting?
Yes. The park offers wide open green space, gardens, a lake and sports facilities, making it a relaxing place to walk or picnic in Bermondsey.
How big is Southwark Park?
Southwark Park covers around 63 acres and was opened in 1869.
Are there public toilets available?
Yes, there are public toilets next to the cafe.
Is the park dog-friendly?
Yes, Southwark Park is dog friendly.
Things to Do Near Southwark Park
If you’re visiting Southwark Park, there are several interesting places nearby:
• Bermondsey Beer Mile
• Maltby Street Market
• The Thames Path walk
• Tower Bridge
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