Hidden amongst the trees of Ravenscourt Park, the Paddenswick Tea Gardens have stood for over a century, offering a place to rest and rejuvenate. They are more than just a place to enjoy a cup of tea; the building’s history is woven into the fabric of the park, and it bears witness to a fascinating past. The Paddenswick Tea Gardens, originally part of the Ravenscourt estate, is a testament to a long and rich history that dates back to medieval times. The estate, originally known as Palingswick Manor, was later renamed Ravenscourt by Thomas Corbett in 1747. The name was derived from the raven in his coat of arms, and the French word for raven, “corbeau,” was a playful pun on his surname. The elegant stable block, now the tea house, is all that remains of the grand Ravenscourt House, which once stood on this site. The house was destroyed in 1941 during World War II, but the stable block, a testament to the estate’s past splendor, was spared. You may notice the ornamental lake near the Tea Gardens, this was once part of the ancient moat that surrounded the original manor house. Later, the Scott family, who owned the estate in the 19th century, employed the famous landscape architect Humphry Repton to create the beautiful gardens that we enjoy today. You can almost imagine the grandeur of the original estate, with its manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and the sound of birdsong. The Paddenswick Tea Gardens, now a public cafe, is a reminder of the changing face of Ravenscourt Park. Its history is full of colourful characters: from Alice Perrers, King Edward III’s mistress, to the philanthropist George Scott, who made the park accessible to the public. Today, the Paddenswick Tea Gardens are a place where locals and visitors alike can pause, relax, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Come and find your own piece of history in this charming corner of London.
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