Today I’m going to walk through Brockwell Park and show you some of the scenery along the way. It’s a beautiful summer day and I’m on my way to one of my favourite places, Brockwell Park in South London, in Herne Hill. This is where I normally come to exercise and relax.
There’s a beautiful church on the way, with some magnificent architecture and a really lovely design.
Here We Are
And here we are at Brockwell Park. This is where I normally come, almost every day, just to exercise, have some fun and relax. You can see central London in the distance, including the City of London and the Shard. There are lots of people out today, having picnics and enjoying the sunshine.
At the top of the hill, Brockwell Hall has the Glassmaker’s Café inside, a handy stop if you want a coffee before carrying on.
For the Children
There are also areas for children, with a sandpit, water jets, seating areas and plenty of space to play. There’s a lovely pond as well, where you can see ducks and other birds.
It’s such a lovely and refreshing place. You can come here for a walk in the evening, enjoy the fresh air and take in the London scenery.
The Walled Garden
There’s also a beautiful Walled Garden with a lot of history behind it. It was originally part of the Brockwell estate, which was bought by John Blades in 1807. The Walled Garden was originally the kitchen garden of the estate, where fruit and vegetables were grown. When the estate became a public park, the garden was turned into a formal garden for quiet contemplation.
The Temple, and How Much Has Survived
There’s also a historic Temple next to the garden. Looking at the old photographs and comparing them with today, it’s amazing how much of the original building has remained. The Walled Garden and Temple were restored to help preserve these historic features so that people can still come here and enjoy them today.
It’s a lovely place to sit down, relax and enjoy some peace and tranquillity.
My Take
Brockwell Park also has large open areas where I normally come to exercise. People come here to walk, run and do group exercises, and it’s all good fun. For me, it’s about consistency: getting outside, exercising and enjoying the surroundings. I also always make sure I have my bottle of water with me when I’m out walking.
Brockwell Park is a beautiful place to walk, exercise, relax and enjoy nature right in the middle of London.
Before You Go
The park opens at 7:30am and closes 15 minutes before sunset, so closing time changes through the year.
Herne Hill station is a short, step-free walk from Herne Hill Gate. Brixton (Victoria line) and Tulse Hill are other options. Parking is limited.
A 50-metre outdoor pool open all year, run by Active Lambeth. A casual swim is £9.50 for adults and £6 for children.
Normally runs from the last Saturday in May to the final weekend in September. Bring a towel and spare clothes.
Weekends from April to September, usually 11am to 4pm, £1 return. Volunteer-run and weather-dependent.
The Glassmaker’s Café in Brockwell Hall is open 8am to 5pm daily. There is also a café at the Lido.
Several entrances are step-free and the main paths are surfaced, but the climb up to Brockwell Hall is steep with a buggy or wheelchair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Brockwell Lido all year?
Yes. The outdoor 50-metre pool is open year-round, although junior swimmers cannot use it when the water is below 15°C.
Is Brockwell Park suitable for pushchairs?
Mostly. The main paths are surfaced, but the route up to Brockwell Hall is steep. The lower park around the ponds is flatter.
How long should I allow?
About an hour for the hill, Brockwell Hall and the Walled Garden. Families adding the playground, Lido or railway can easily spend three hours or more.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on my own visits to the park, including the Walled Garden, Temple, sand and water play area and the pond. All photographs are my own. Opening times, Lido prices, wet play dates and the railway timetable were checked against Lambeth Council, Active Lambeth and the operators’ own sites.
- Lambeth Council: Brockwell Park
- Active Lambeth: Brockwell Lido
- Brockwell Park Miniature Railway
- The Glassmaker’s Café
Last checked: 10 September 2026
Nearby guides: Dulwich Park, Battersea Park and Peckham Rye Park
Author
Steve visits every park featured on EKS Parks in person, checking practical details against councils, park operators and official sources. Every guide is based on a personal visit, and the photographs published with it are his own.
About Steve