A Brief Introduction to Clissold Park
Clissold Park is an idyllic and historical space, set within the trendy, hustle and bustle of Stoke Newington in the London Borough of Hackney.
Clissold Park is one of Hackney’s best-loved green spaces and remains central to the local community, having hosted many important events and celebrations over the years. In 2011 Clissold Park and House were extensively refurbished with funding from Hackney Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund. The park has held a Green Flag award since 2006. Green Flags are awarded annually to the best green spaces in the country.
The park, originally a private estate and part of the Grade II listed Clissold House, it was due to be built on in 1886, this triggered a passionate 2-year local campaign to purchase it for the public. The campaign was spearheaded by Joseph Beck of The City of London and John Runtz of The Metropolitan Board of Works, they were successful and the park was officially opened to the public on the 24th of July 1889.
Clissold park has many standout features, for example, the 54 acre park has a wide range of tree species, and for many years the larger pond was used as a boating lake, in the summer months many local residents are seen sitting and relaxing under the sun, it’s not uncommon to see group workout sessions, joggers and even those having family picnics. The park also benefits from a cafe open to the public 7 days a week from 8:30 am – 4 pm.
One of the most popular features of Clissold Park is the collection of animals, including the aviary, butterfly dome, goats, chicken and a small herd of fallow deer. The aviary has a collection of exotic birds including Cockatiels, Parakeets, Zebra Finches, Budgerigars and Lovebirds. The animals have historically been for educational purposes, particularly for children and young people; this is purely visual and no contact between members of the public and animals takes place.
A TripAdvisor Review:
“Not just one of London’s many parks, but one of the most beautiful – a wide area for walking, jogging, bike-riding, picnicking or just sitting down and relaxing. But that’s not all: here you can get a glimpse of birds, rabbits and deer at close quarters – a real treat for the kids and not only!”
The park is very important to local residents, so much so, that a group of volunteers set up the Clissold Park User Group. The User Group has existed for over twenty-five years and is open to everyone who uses or cares about the park. The group works with Hackney Council and others to help maintain and improve the park.
For more information visit https://hackney.gov.uk/clissold-park
If you are interested in living within close proximity to Clissold park get in touch with local estate agency Oakwood Estate Agents on 0207 249 1000.