Raphael Park — Attraction in London

This is a lovely park and I've only given it 2 stars because a small minority allow their dogs to randomly run up to strangers, pestering them and their dogs. This applies even if you've deliberately walked away from paths to give plenty of space for them to pass. It even applies where people have code yellow accessories (dog needs space). They also let their dogs chase the ducks even at this time of year when there are young about, so because of this I've given it a low score. It's not a comfortable place to be if you're unlucky enough to meet these people. Their dogs made physical contact with my body and there was no attempt to call them back though we were obviously not inviting the contact. Because of this I would support dogs being kept on lead around the lake areas and greater information about what being under control really means. I think it would be worth creating a poster that explains the possible outcomes for others when you allow your dog to run up to and scare others, (people or dogs). Having 2 strange dogs coming up either side of us when we hadn't invited their contact and had taken steps to actively avoid it made for a very unpleasant experience. It should go without saying that chasing the ducks and geese shouldn't be happening and if you know your dog will do this pop it on a lead. If you're against putting a dog on a lead (perhaps you believe it cruel) please find somewhere else to walk and leave the park free for the 99% of people who do keep their children and dogs under their control which can of course include voice control. It shouldn't require a dog bite before a problem is recognised as a problem. If your dog is under your control and you are allowing it to do this please have a think and consider whether you're comfortable with your dog causing stress to the ducks and stress to other park users. I know people who won't use the park because of...

My local park I normally visit is Valentine's Park, however me and my wife decided for a change of scenery on a surprisingly warm March afternoon. It was a pleasant drive from my house (20 mins away) and we found parking very easily right outside the entrances to where the Tennis courts lie. We walked down the path towards the ducks and were greeted by some lovely ducks accompanied with their baby ducklings which my 2 year old daughter was very excited to experience. The park wasn't too busy so it was great taking some family pictures whilst carrying on our walk down the lake bed. As we walked we came across more ducks and lovely white pigeons with a few swans also swimming on the lake. It was a great view with the sun beaming down on us. I would advise to always keep your kids close and hold their hand walking alongside the lake as their is no netting (or similar) to prevent any accidents of falling into the water, however there is enough pavement to ensure you are safe. As you walk down the path you will come across a lovely giant fountain shooting upwards in the middle of the lake. As you draw closer the water spray of the fountain will lightly fall onto you which is an oddly satisfying feeling. Once we reached the end we looped back round down the adjacent path and made our way back to our car, which for us was a perfect amount of walking (around 30-40 mins). My wife particularly enjoyed the walk and we definitely intend to revisit Raphael Park in the...

Lived here all my life. Gorgeous park, lovely people, friendly dogs, and wonderful upkeep by the park rangers and bin men who maintain the park like a private garden. If you have a puppy or are looking to socialise your dog I would highly recommend Raphael's as there is a brilliant mix of small, large, young, and old dogs, to expose your dog to. The two stars I have to remove is during the summer months when inconsiderate people chuck litter all over the park. On the field, the forest, and in the river. As a dog owner I am disgusted by people who don't pick up after their dog, but there are signs and fines to dissuade people from doing so. There are NO signs or fines to dissuade the lazy picnickers who leave their food/bags/and children's NAPPIES over the park. There needs to be more penalties for doing so, and I would even go as far as to suggest cameras over the field where the worst offenders are. Not only are they ruining the image of the park, they harm the wildlife, dogs, and create more work for the keepers. I am unsure how someone can be so completely inconsiderate of others, but it seems like there is a epidemic of such people during the summer months in Raphael's.

EDIT 9.8.22- added a few more photos from 2 more...