Hidden within the heart of Carshalton lies Carshalton Park. A place steeped in history and secrets. A place where deer once roamed freely until 1898.
Carshalton Park is much smaller than it once was. It was a sprawling estate. In 1892 parts were sold for housing development. Its northern edge extended to the High Street. The Orangery in The Square was once part of the parkland.
Imagine Giacomo Leoni. A Venetian architect with grand plans. He designed a mansion for Carshalton Park in the early 18th century. Only the Orangery was ever built. The park’s original 1711 gates now stand far away in New York’s Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park.
Before you stands Hog Pit. A large earthwork. Its origin is a mystery. Medieval records from 1444 mention Hoggpytte. In the late 18th century it served as a water reservoir for local mills. Today it’s dry. It forms a natural amphitheatre.
Venture further into Carshalton Park. Discover the Grotto in the southeast corner. Built around 1724 it was a key element in the park’s ambitious design. A now-dry canal once stretched from the Grotto to Carshalton Place. The Grotto is sadly dilapidated. Locked gates usually prevent access. It originally boasted an iron gate marble pavement and a shell-covered roof. A branch of the River Wandle once flowed beneath it. In 2014 after heavy rains the river briefly flowed again.
Carshalton Park holds a hidden treasure. A World War II air raid shelter. Discovered in 2012 it could have protected up to 1000 people. A council worker found it. Satellite images and old minutes confirmed its existence. It was likely built to protect the nearby cottage hospital. Carshalton suffered numerous bombing raids and V1 rocket attacks during the war.
Today Carshalton Park offers modern recreation. Three tennis courts a netball court a basketball court and a children’s playground. It’s also the setting for annual events. The Carshalton Fireworks a major charity display since 1957. The Carshalton Carnival and the Environmental Fair also draw large crowds.
So explore Carshalton Park. Discover its layers of history. Uncover its hidden secrets. Experience its blend of past and present. Remember the deer the grand designs and the resilience of those who sheltered here during the war. Let Carshalton Park captivate you.