Once upon a time, this park was part of the Coombe Estate. Lloyd Park has a rich history. The estate was first noted in 1221. By Elizabeth I’s reign, it was ‘Broad Coombe’.
In the 17th century, the Harvey brothers owned the estate. William Harvey, physician to Charles I, often stayed here. He had caves made for meditating in the dark. These caves were near the park’s current boundary, but not inside Lloyd Park.
Frank Lloyd, a newspaper owner, lived at Coombe House from 1892. He wanted to give some land for a park before he died in 1927. After his death, his daughter Mrs. J R Garwood gifted the land. She fulfilled her father’s wish. She also created a memorial to him.
Now, let’s stroll through Lloyd Park. Notice the open space. Unlike typical suburban parks, this one isn’t enclosed. Low hedges line Coombe Road. Earth banks deter cars on Lloyd Park Avenue. It’s open 24 hours a day.
The main entrance is near the Lloyd Park tram stop. You can park your car here. Also grab a snack at ‘The Lounge Cafe’.
Did you know Lloyd Park has a special area called The Squashes? It’s on the northern edge. Here, springs emerge in wet weather. Rippingill is the most frequent spring. Water soaks through the chalk subsoil. This chalk lies under most of the park.
Take a look at the old trees. The gift conditions said they should be kept. Despite storm damage in 1987, the area still looks like former parkland. Beech trees dot the park’s high points.
Chalk Pit Field once had a visible chalk pit. It was filled in the early 1950s.
Keep an eye out for sports facilities here in Lloyd Park. You can find rugby and football pitches. There are also bowls and tennis courts. Children enjoy the playground. Adults can use the open-air gym. Disc golf is available. You can even try orienteering. Or explore the cross country courses. Horse riding is also permitted here.
A sports pavilion was built in 1963. A children’s playground opened in 1969. The playground had a long slide. It went down into an old chalk pit.
From 2010 before, Lloyd Park hosted the Croydon Summer Festival. Many musical acts performed here. These included Martha and the Vandellas and The Proclaimers. The Lightning Seeds also played here. So did The Damned and Courtney Pine. The park also hosts the Croydon Town and Country Show.
In May/June 2019, The Ends festival was held in the park. Damian Marley headlined this festival.
In 1999, the Croydon Tramlink track was laid. It runs along the Coombe Road boundary. A new sports pavilion was built in 2008. A National Grid tunnel head house sits near the tram stop.
As we conclude our visit to Lloyd Park, remember Frank Lloyd’s gift. This space offers recreation, nature and community. It continues to evolve. It provides enjoyment for everyone.