Just 10 minutes’ walk from Queen’s Park tube station there is a wonderful park.
There are plenty of paths and a trim trail for those who want to keep fit in the green. There’s grass and trees and wide open spaces for running games. There were grandmas and grandpas playing with their grandchildren and dog walkers taking in the air. I liked the sculptures too. There is also a Quiet Garden with perfect flower borders offering a dog-free peaceful space.
The adventure playground is immense. And it ranges from an area for three to six year olds with swings and slides to areas with much bigger kit (including zip lines and tyres) for older children up to 12 years old. There’s a sandpit and a screened paddling pool – perfect for cooling off in the hot weather. And a conveniently close loo block.
The Park Café is substantial with seating areas both inside and out. There are pretty decorative flower arrangements in baskets here too. There are tennis courts with an offer to “try tennis for free”. So plenty to amuse the young ones.
Further on there is a splendid bandstand with advertised dates for free concerts which is just near a shady area that would be perfect for picnics.
But my favourite area – tucked away at the back and open between 11am and 645pm most days – is Pet’s Corner. Here is a small but lovely collection of animals including goats, budgies, parakeets, chickens and rabbits – including some giant ones. There were plenty of parents pushing kids in strollers and they all stopped to look at the geese and ducks in the pond. Hand washing facilities are thoughtfully provided at the entrance.
