South Norwood Country Park

South Norwood Country Park is a 125-acre Local Nature Reserve located between South Norwood and Elmers End in the London Borough of Croydon. The park features a mix of meadows, wetlands, woodlands, and a lake, offering a valuable habitat for wildlife and a peaceful green space for the public. It is designated as a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation.

Historically, the site was home to a moated medieval manor known as La Motes, which was abandoned due to frequent flooding. From the mid-19th century until 1967, the area was used as a sewage farm. After its closure, parts of the land were used as landfill, with rubble from bombed buildings forming the highest point in the park. In 1982, the area was designated as Metropolitan Open Land and officially opened as a country park in 1989.

The park supports a wide range of wildlife. Over 100 bird species have been recorded, including reed buntings, warblers, wagtails, and sparrowhawks. In winter, species like snipe, lapwing, and water rail can be seen. Amphibians such as frogs, toads, and newts are also common, especially around the Dragonfly Pond, which was designed to support dragonflies and damselflies.

South Norwood Country Park includes a children’s playground, walking and cycling paths (part of the Waterlink Way), and a viewing mound that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. There is also a lake and a network of wetlands that attract birds and other wildlife. The visitor centre and public toilets are currently closed for refurbishment.

The park is accessible from several entrances, with the main one located on Albert Road. It is well served by public transport, including nearby tram stops at Arena and Harrington Road. The park is a successful example of urban land restoration, providing both a haven for nature and a recreational space for the local community.

Created: 21  April  2025  Edited: 21  April  2025