by Sally-Ann Johnson
Squirrels, butterflies, Canada Geese, moorhens, Mallards – just some of the bird and animal life that can be found in Kelsey Park. One minute walk from the buzz of Beckenham High Street, this tranquil haven of great natural beauty is open all day and has something for everyone.
Following the footpath enveloped by trees and flora, you can saunter around the whole park in about thirty minutes, circumnavigating the lake, which flows from the River Beck. A unique selling point is the size of the park – there’s just enough space to provide temporary escapism, but it’s not so vast that it’s impersonal.
It’s a perfect place to quietly watch the world go by. There are plenty of benches; you can find yourself a secluded spot of grass on which to sit and read the paper, have a picnic or a nap. Or you can savour the Alderman Parkin Rose Garden.
Information on the species of birds and wildlife found in the park can be found on notice boards. An information centre opened weekends and afternoons provides literature on walks, talks and events – all part of a programme of activities in the London Borough of Bromley aimed at encouraging enjoyment of the local countryside.
As well as the lake, there’s a play area for children, a café and often an ice cream van! Mini golf and tennis courts are also available.
Formed in 1997, the Friends of Kelsey Park is a group whose mission is to secure conservation, protection and improvement for the park.
If you haven’t visited Kelsey Park, then do! It’s a little piece of heaven on the doorstep.
Photo: Thanks to aliceson on Flickr (CCL)
