Maryon Wilson Park

Deep in the woods of Maryon Wilson Park, highwaymen once lurked, their whispers lost now to the rustling leaves. Today, Maryon Wilson Park offers a tranquil escape. It’s a haven. A place where rustling leaves replace the whispers of highwaymen. Maryon Wilson Park stands as a testament to the generosity of the Maryon Wilson family. Their land, once part of the Charlton Manor estate, became a gift to London in 1924. Sir Spencer Maryon Wilson, facing the burden of heavy taxes, offered Hanging Wood to the London County Council. While they initially declined, he later generously donated 32 acres, officially opening Maryon Wilson Park to the public in 1926. The park has a rich history, going back to its origins as Hanging Wood. Daniel Lysons, in his 1796 “Environs of London”, described the area as a picturesque walk to Woolwich. He praised its varied terrain and riverside views. This landscape, once roamed by highwaymen, now welcomes families to its animal park. Children can experience the joy of feeding and petting the animals. The park offers a unique blend of history, nature, and family fun, reminding us of the Maryon Wilson family’s enduring legacy. They transformed a highwaymen’s haunt into a beloved community space. In 2011, the animal park faced a threat of closure due to funding cuts by Greenwich Council. Community efforts rallied to keep this beloved feature open, demonstrating the park’s ongoing value to the community.