“Did the name ‘Pricklers’ ever make you giggle?” a child’s voice chirped nearby. And so begins our exploration of Greenhill Gardens in New Barnet. This delightful 1.6-hectare park, with its inviting lake and mature trees, holds a history as intriguing as its former name. Greenhill Gardens, as we know it today, is a mere fragment of a once-grand estate. This estate, known as Pricklers, took its peculiar name from the medieval Prittle family. The land, originally owned by the Crown, passed through generations, eventually landing in the hands of John Marsh in 1558. Interestingly, Marsh was one of the original governors of Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School. While the family continued to use the name Pricklers, the estate eventually became known as Greenhill by the 16th century. By the late 18th century, it had evolved into Greenhill Grove. The 19th century brought significant changes, as the estate was divided. The southern portion gave rise to Willenhall, a structure later demolished around 1900 during the area’s development as a commuter suburb. The early 20th century witnessed further transformation, with most of the land being used to create the Lyonsdown neighborhood. In 1926, East Barnet Council, recognizing the need for green space, purchased the remaining land for £20,000, establishing the Greenhill Gardens we enjoy today. The centerpiece of Greenhill Gardens is undoubtedly the ornamental lake. This body of water, a vestige of the original landscaped gardens, now serves as a haven for birds. Imagine yourself sitting on one of the park benches, a good book in hand, or perhaps simply enjoying the tranquility under the shade of the trees. Greenhill Gardens offers a welcome escape from the urban bustle, a place where history whispers through the leaves and the laughter of children echoes across the tranquil lake.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service