The History of Lloyd Park

Lloyd Park, a cornerstone of Walthamstow's community, was graciously donated by the Lloyd family to the Walthamstow Urban District Council in 1898. This generous gift included the Water House and its expansive gardens. The park officially opened to the public in July 1900, boasting features such as terrace gardens, a decorative fountain, a quaint refreshment kiosk, a sports pavilion, and an initial bandstand strategically placed on the island.

By 1905, Lloyd Park had expanded its offerings with an additional bandstand on the lower field and a home pitch for the Walthamstow Avenue Football Club. The acquisition of Aveling Fields in 1912 further enhanced the park with new tennis courts and a bowling green. A historical moment occurred in August 1917 when the park endured one of the first Zeppelin bombings during World War I.

The 1930s saw the introduction of a children's playground and a beloved concert pavilion on the island. Post-World War II, from 1947 to 1960, the park accommodated prefabricated homes on the lower fields to provide housing for those displaced by bombings. The Water House began a new chapter as the William Morris Gallery in 1950, celebrating the legacy of the famed artist and socialist. This iconic building once served as offices and a clinic before its conversion. The island's pavilion was transformed into a theatre in 1972 but was later removed in a 2012 restoration effort.

Today, Lloyd Park features terraced and William Morris-inspired gardens, an expansive children's play area, a welcoming café, dual bowling greens, a outdoor gym, and well-maintained tennis courts. New trees have been planted across conservation areas to enhance the park's natural beauty. The park's dedicated team of gardeners ensures it remains a pristine escape in Walthamstow, earning it the prestigious Green Flag Award annually since its restoration in 2012.

Discover the charm and history of Lloyd Park, a beloved green space in Walthamstow that continues to serve as a vibrant community hub for relaxation, recreation, and cultural enrichment.