“Fancy a stroll through time?” That is what Tooting Bec Common whispers to those who visit. Tooting Bec Common is more than just a green space. It’s a living testament to London’s history.
Tooting Bec Common and Tooting Graveney Common together form what we know as Tooting Common today. These commons are all that remain of a vast expanse of common land. This land once stretched all the way to Mitcham. Today, they offer a large open space. They also provide important areas of acid grassland. There are three extensive woodlands here too. These are Bedford Hill, Streatham Hill and Tooting Graveney Woods.
The name Tooting Bec has an interesting origin. In 1086, the area was recorded in the Domesday Book as “Totinges.” Part of the land was held by St Mary de Bec-Hellouin Abbey. The abbey was based in Normandy. “Bec,” meaning stream, was added to Tooting. This was after Bec Abbey. The Normans gifted the abbey land in this area.
Tooting Bec Common became formally established. This was under the Metropolitan Commons Act of 1866. The Metropolitan Board of Works acquired the manorial rights in 1873 for £13798. Tooting Graveney Common was acquired in 1875 for £3000.
Dr Johnson Avenue marks the dividing line. It separates Tooting Bec Common and Tooting Graveney Common. This path was used by Dr Samuel Johnson. He met his “dear mistress” Hester Thrale here.
Tooting Bec Common is a Site of Metropolitan Importance. This is due to its acid grassland. It is also known for its large oak trees and historic avenues. Keep an eye out for the London County Council boundary markers.
The common supports a variety of woodland birds. These include blackcaps, garden warblers and chiffchaffs. You can also spot stag beetles, butterflies and moths. The purple and white-letter hairstreak moths are particularly special. There is also a nationally scarce leaf beetle called Chrysolina oricalcia. Overall, 74 species have been recorded here.
Bats also thrive here. Three species of pipistrelle are present. Daubenton’s, noctule, Leisler’s and serotine bats can also be found. Wetland habitats support a range of plants. Dragonflies and other water insects also live here.
The area is well-equipped with facilities. You can find car parking, fishing spots, a playground and an outdoor swimming pool. You can even admire public art. Tooting Bec Lido is a must-see. It opened in 1906. It is the largest freshwater swimming pool by surface area in the UK.
So, as you wander through Tooting Bec Common, remember its rich history. Think about the Normans, the monks and even Dr Johnson. This common is more than just a park. It is a place where history and nature intertwine.