Days Out: Autumn at Battersea Park
Another lovely urban park with riverside views, children’s zoo, boating lake, and walking paths, Battersea Park has something for everyone.
Beautiful Battersea Park sits across the River Thames from the Chelsea Embankment. Pulling up from Waterloo Station to Queenstown Road Station, you can’t help but notice the large-scale regeneration around the area. New luxury residential development has sprung up from Nine Elms to Battersea Park, including the new and massive U.S. Embassy.
Despite all the regeneration, one thing that hasn’t changed is beautiful Battersea Park. I’ve always loved coming to Battersea Park since our carefree and youthful days of living in Clapham Common. The Common is great for local jogs and sunbathing on a brilliant sunny day. However, there’s something special about Battersea Park no matter what season. Autumn is especially lovely in Battersea Park, thanks to the woodlands and variety of gardens with leaves turning into colours of a blazing sunset. At Battersea Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Children’s Playground
To celebrate the beginning of autumn, we had a little family outing to Battersea Park to enjoy some fresh autumn air. Arriving via the Rosery Gate, we made a beeline to the Peartree Cafe for an extra dose of caffeine. Occupying a pretty spot next to the boating lake, the terrace of Peartree Cafe is a perfect place for a coffee break. Of course, Lady Yeya spotted the new children’s playground across the way. Obsessed with all things naval-related, Lady Yeya ran for the pirate ship play structure and befriended a few toddlers to join in on the “expedition.” Needless to say, Lady Yeya didn’t want to leave until “Captain Mama” told her that we would see some monkeys at the local zoo.
Battersea Children’s Zoo
Situated next to the Peace Pagoda is the Battersea’s Children Zoo. To be honest, it is more a large outdoor play area than a zoo. It is compact without being overwhelming for kids and parents with different themed play zones all complete with sandpits, climbing frames, fire engine, and a helicopter. In terms of animals, there were lemurs, meerkats, birds, monkeys and some farm animals to keep the kids entertained. Plus there’s ample picnic benches and shaded areas for some rest time. A toddler’s delight.
Boating Lake
The boating lake is one of the highlights of Battersea Park. The delightful circular walk takes you through the well-landscaped lake which once featured a Victorian cascading waterfall amongst the large rockery. The Pump House Gallery sits on the lake as well as the sub-tropical garden. For all the art lovers, there are several sculptures by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. Park benches are strategically placed around the lake so you can always find a peaceful corner to enjoy a moment of tranquility.
Riverside Promenade
If walking around the boating lake isn’t enough to get your 10,000 daily steps, then a walk along Battersea Park’s riverside promenade is always a good idea. It’s a great place to people-watch especially at the Peace Pagoda. Here, there’s always a fashion shoot, Instagrammers, and fitness enthusiasts.
In short, the woodlands and walled gardens, Old English Garden, boating lake, several playgrounds, and an adorable children’s zoo make Battersea Park a great place for adults and kids alike.
