Dating back to medieval times Lamorbey Park began as part of a sprawling estate. Today Lamorbey stands as a testament to time. It reflects centuries of evolution nestled in the London Borough of Bexley.
Lamorbey’s story begins around 1495. Thomas Sparrow, the deputy Reeve of Bexley, built a house here. Sparrow’s daughter and her husband then constructed Lamienby Goldwell. This house gave Lamorbey its name.
Fast forward to the 1800s. The present house and grounds took shape. Many of the trees around you date from this period.
From 1910 to 1946, Lamorbey House became a hotel. Later, it served as an adult education college until the 1980s. Now, Rose Bruford College occupies these buildings.
Lamorbey Park was once much larger. The re-siting of Sidcup Golf Course reduced its size. The construction of Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School further shaped the park. Hurstmere School also contributed to the present size of around 57 hectares.
Notice the nine-hole golf course. The River Shuttle bisects it. This river supplies water to two lakes and a marshy area within the course. The Shuttle Riverway skirts the course.
Lamorbey Park includes The Glade. The Glade encompasses the main lake, which once served as a swimming pool. Over the last twenty years, the lake has naturalized. It now supports several fish species, including eels.
Around the lake, many species of native trees and shrubs thrive. Some are hundreds of years old. The Dell is a small sunken area. In winter, young sledgers love it.
The Pine Walk marks the old driveway to the house from Halfway Street. As the name suggests pines dominate it.
Lamorbey Park hosts an impressive variety of birdlife. Over 105 species of birds have been recorded here. Around 30 species breed away from the water.
Kingfishers breed along the Shuttle. Tawny owls and sparrowhawks are probably breeders, too. Winter visitors include little grebes and redwings.
Lamorbey has seen its share of oddities. A male pheasant once appeared near Burnt Oak Lane. Unusual geese and a Bahamas pintail have been spotted.
Other wildlife includes great crested newts and marsh frogs. Several bat species and many insects also live here.
In 1988, Lamorbey Park was added to the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. It gained recognition for its special historic interest.
Lamorbey Park provides a serene escape. It offers a blend of history, nature, and recreation. From its medieval roots to its present-day form, Lamorbey continues to evolve. It offers a rich tapestry of stories for all who visit.