A Walk Through History: The Story of Lammas Park, Ealing

As a dog walker based in Ealing, I've had the pleasure of exploring many of the borough's beautiful parks. One such gem that always captivates me with its lush greenery and calm ambience is Lammas Park. From the carefully manicured flower beds to the beautifully preserved Victorian-era infrastructure, there's something truly enchanting about this place. But have you ever wondered about the history behind this stunning park? Let's take a stroll down memory lane and discover the roots of Lammas Park.

Early Beginnings

The history of Lammas Park stretches back hundreds of years. The park’s name, 'Lammas', comes from the Anglo-Saxon word 'hlaf-maesse', which translates to 'loaf mass'. This was a tradition in which the first loaf of bread from the harvest was blessed. The word 'Lammas' later came to be associated with the 'Lammas Rights', a custom whereby local inhabitants were allowed to graze their livestock on common land, and harvest the hay after Lammas Day on August 1st.

The area that is now Lammas Park was once part of 'Common Meadows', an expansive area of common land that was used for grazing livestock and growing hay. This practice continued until the 19th century when the land started being enclosed and sold off.

The Birth of a Park

In the late 19th century, as Ealing began to urbanise, the need for public green spaces became apparent. The Ealing Local Board purchased part of the Lammas land in 1881 for the purpose of creating a public park. The remaining Lammas land was bought by the council in 1892, and Lammas Park was officially opened to the public in 1884.

The park was designed by Richard Marnock, a renowned Victorian landscape gardener, who was also responsible for the design of several other parks in the area. His design philosophy was to provide recreational spaces for people of all ages. This is evident in Lammas Park, which has areas for sports, picnics, and children's playgrounds, as well as quieter, more secluded areas for those seeking peace and tranquillity.

Victorian Legacy

Lammas Park retains much of its original Victorian charm. The park's original ornate cast iron entrance gates, installed in 1892, still stand today at the Northfield Avenue entrance. The park also features a beautiful Victorian-style bandstand, a popular venue for concerts and events during the summer months.

In 1910, a conservatory was added to the park, known as the 'Palm House'. This large glass structure, filled with a range of tropical plants, became a popular attraction. However, it was removed in the 1980s due to structural problems. In its place now stands the Lammas Park Children's Centre.

Lammas Park Today

Today, Lammas Park continues to be a beloved green space in Ealing. It is home to a range of facilities, including tennis courts, a bowling green, a children's playground, and a mini-golf course. It also hosts community events throughout the year.

For dog walkers like us, Lammas Park offers a safe and scenic environment for our furry friends to explore. The combination of open fields, winding paths, and mature trees provides a variety of sights, sounds, and smells to keep your dog engaged and entertained. It's also a great place to meet other dog owners and become part of the local dog-walking community.

Conclusion

Every step you take in Lammas Park is a step back in history. It is a place where the old world charm of Ealing meets the vitality of the present, offering a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. As we walk our dogs in Lammas Park, we not only appreciate its beauty but also its historical significance in shaping the community of Ealing. So, the next time you visit, take a moment to appreciate the history beneath your feet.