I first caught a fleeting sight of Maryon Park whilst on the 177 bus heading to Southmere Lake. I then passed it several times over the past year or so and promised myself to make time and visit it, so I did. First impressions, it just seems like a regular green space but with a somewhat grand entrance considering it's beside a busy road and opposite some industrial units and a construction site on its left side. I was amazed as I made my way up a slight incline passing a rather well-equipped children's play area and a basketball court. I saw children and adults using the area, and several people were happily playing ball too. With paths leading off to the left and to the right of a centre-placed tennis court which was also in use, it opened up to a very peaceful view. I now had a lovely tranquil positive feeling about the park. I think it's a good well-planned use of what is a very small area. It's a Sunday afternoon, bright skies with a promise of rain and a chilly breeze and people are using it. A very good sign indeed. It seems to be a much-needed space by this attendance , and loved and valued by all that use it. There are good information boards properly placed and in fair condition, and well-positioned signs detailing the various walks and connections, well done. The first one seemed like a personal reminder that I should continue my Green Chain walk to Crystal Palace, and I was in the right place to start or finish it. I believe serendipity brought me here, hmmm. I love the nice-sized lawn which is sunken with raised edges with a gentle sloping surrounding path leading to another entrance/exit gate. It feels like a little slice of the British countryside slam-bang in an urban setting, I love the feeling a place like this gives you. Lots of community activities on the info board including volunteer opportunities, and local projects seem to be in place too, top marks team. The park and grounds are in fine, well-kept condition, this is to the credit of the grounds staff and all involved, your efforts have not gone unnoticed and are truly appreciated, i for one sincerely thank you all. Considering this was just a quick visit just to get a general feel, I was further Impressed by the path on the east side leading up to the top view. Again the path, trees, and grounds are maintained in lovely order throughout, I do have a thing about well-cared-for paths. That's just me. I managed to scale the steps thanks to the handrails and out into what I thought was a secret garden, I'm getting in shape here. What a lovely quiet space for those who want to get away from it all, and ideal for contemplating and resting after the much-needed stair workout. You can just see the Thames from the top which just adds to this hidden gem and a reminder that you are still in a city setting. It was an all too short but not rushed visit and enjoyable. And as I made my way back down heading towards the exit with the traffic and chaos ahead, I knew I would be coming back again, next time with sandwiches and a good book. More like a rest and recovery after my Green Chain hike. What...
Read moreMaryon Park is a little gem of a place. It is hidden between residential streets and council flats. The entrance by which I enter is easy to miss and most would not think to venture in that particular area unless you are a resident but the trip is worth it. The park is well kept and has varying charms depending on what time of the day you visit. I arrive early in the Morning with the joggers and early birds. I was immediately enchanted by the nostalgia it gave me. I use Maryon park a lot as my baby daughter finds it soothing taking a stroll through the grounds. You must...
Read moreThis place is beautiful!! And it's only down the road from Woolwich dockyard which I didn't know it's got grass and woodland areas a small park for kids to play a basketball court, and two tennis courts!! For FREE!! could you imagine!! I'm definitely going back with my boys, you could ride bikes, skate board, soothers anything. I saw a water fountain, to get a drink if you don't have one, there's lots of seating areas benches ň stuff. Would be nice for a picnic, just a nice place to relax and...
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