Our Park of the Month in January 2024 finds us back in Acton in Southfield Recreation Ground.  This well used park achieved Green Flag status in 2023 and stands on the site of four ancient fields.

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History

This community park and recreation ground is tucked away behind Southfield Road W4, and is surrounded by residential and light industrial building and is on the site of four ancient fields. Before becoming a local amenity it was the site of The Oakley Small Arms Works that moved from Chelsea to Acton in 1904. During the First World War (1914-1918) over 2 million bayonets were made her by the Wilkinson Sword Company who also made bicycles, motor bikes, cars and tractors, which were trialled on the open land. Part of the land was then sold to Acton Urban District Council in 1908 to be used as a public open space and became affectionately known as Southfield Rec.

More recently Southfield Rec. has become the home of https://w4youth.org.uk/ a W4 Youth a community youth project for 11-19 year olds in West London. 

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Park Facilities

As expected of a recreation ground there are large playing fields with two football pitches, tennis courts and basketball court.  There is an interesting and varied children's playground and good outdoor gym facilities for all ages.

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Nature

All green spaces are important for wildlife habitat and nature.  While this Park is primarily given over to sports facilities there are wlldflower meadows and a lot of green space for walking, picnicking, and play in general.  There is a small wooded area and a pond providing a habitat for various species.

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Why Visit?

A well used well loved community facility for children, sports and youth clubs.  Even on a cold December day there were people and children exercising and playing.  It is a short walk to South Parade and Turnham Green Terrace with a variety of shops, cafes etc. and of course additional green space.

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How to Get Here

Park Access: Southfield Road, Mansell Road and Hatfield Road.
Transport: Train: Acton Central (Silverlink), Tube: Turnham Green (District line), Bus: E3 (St Peter's Church Stop)
Facilities: Playground, sports pitches, tennis courts, nature and wildflower meadow areas.
 

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