Roundwood Park: A Historic Victorian Oasis in London’s Brent Borough
Historic Victorian park in Brent offering gardens, sports, wildlife, and vibrant community events in a tranquil London oasis.
Roundwood Park is a cherished Victorian-era green space in Harlesden, London NW10, spanning approximately 26.5 acres. Known for its English Heritage Grade II listing and Green Flag Award status, the park offers beautifully landscaped gardens, sports facilities including bowling greens and basketball courts, an aviary, a children’s playground, and a welcoming café. It serves as a vital community hub for recreation, mental wellbeing, and cultural events.
A brief summary to Roundwood Park
- Harlesden Rd, London, NW10 3SH, GB
- +442089371234
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy peaceful walks and spot local wildlife in the aviary and ponds.
- Take advantage of free outdoor gym equipment and instructor-led fitness sessions for a healthy workout.
- Check the schedule for seasonal events like the Brent Respect Festival or Guy Fawkes fireworks for a lively community experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the spacious lawns or use the café’s outdoor seating for refreshments.
- Explore the historic bandstand and lodge house to appreciate the park’s Victorian heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Overground to Harlesden Station, approximately 1.5 km from Roundwood Park, followed by a 20-25 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly streets. Frequent bus routes 260 and 266 serve stops within 500 meters of the park entrance. Single bus fares cost around £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Car
Driving to Roundwood Park is possible with limited on-street parking nearby; expect a 10-20 minute drive from central Brent areas depending on traffic. Parking restrictions apply, so check local signage. No dedicated parking lot is available. Drop-offs are feasible at the park entrance on Harlesden Road.
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Walking
For visitors staying in Harlesden or nearby Brent neighborhoods, walking to the park is ideal and accessible via paved paths. Walking times range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting point, with flat terrain suitable for most mobility levels.
Roundwood Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Roundwood Park
A Legacy of Victorian Design and Community Spirit
Roundwood Park was laid out between 1893 and 1895 under the guidance of Oliver Claude Robson, a prominent local engineer and environmental advocate. Originally known as Knowles Hill or Hunger Hill Common Field, the area was transformed by the planting of over 14,500 trees and shrubs, creating a formal Victorian park that remains largely faithful to Robson’s original vision. The park’s name derives from the nearby Roundwood House, and its design includes elegant avenues, flower gardens, and a prominent bandstand atop a hill. The red-brick lodge house, built in Victorian-Elizabethan style, still stands as a council office, while the café—rebuilt in 1985—continues to serve visitors with refreshments and outdoor seating.Rich Natural Environment and Wildlife Conservation
Roundwood Park is home to a diverse collection of mature trees including oak, London plane, hybrid black poplar, lime, ash, and horse-chestnut. Two small ponds near the main entrance add to the tranquil setting. The park also features an aviary established in the 1950s, housing species such as budgerigars, cockatiels, canaries, zebra finches, and golden pheasants. The surrounding area, including adjacent Willesden New Cemetery and the Liberal Jewish Cemetery, supports wildflowers and butterflies, contributing to the park’s status as a Local Wildlife Site. This natural richness provides a peaceful refuge for visitors and supports biodiversity within an urban environment.Sport, Fitness, and Recreational Facilities
Roundwood Park caters to a wide range of physical activities, making it a hub for healthy living in Brent. Facilities include multi-use games areas, basketball courts, bowling greens available for booking, and outdoor gyms with free access and instructor-led sessions. A large children’s playground and sandpit provide family-friendly recreation. The park’s open lawns and walking paths encourage casual strolls, dog walking, and informal sports. These amenities support community wellbeing and foster active lifestyles without barriers such as fees or complex bookings.Cultural Events and Community Engagement
The park hosts a variety of events that celebrate local culture and community spirit. Annual highlights include George Irvin’s Fun Fair in early May, Zippos Circus, the Eid Prayer in the Park, and a notable fireworks display on Guy Fawkes Day. The Brent Respect Festival, featuring diverse performances and workshops, also takes place here, underscoring the park’s role as a vibrant cultural venue. The Friends of Roundwood Park group actively organizes events and projects to enhance the park, encouraging local involvement and stewardship.A Sanctuary for Mental Health and Mindfulness
Beyond physical activity, Roundwood Park offers profound benefits for mental wellbeing. Its carefully maintained landscapes, wildlife, and quiet corners create an ideal environment for mindfulness, restorative reflection, and stress reduction. The concept of 'soft fascination' applies here—where effortless attention to natural beauty replenishes cognitive resources and lowers stress hormones. Visitors often find solace in the gentle sounds of nature, the aviary’s birdlife, and the peaceful pathways, making the park an essential green oasis amid urban life.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Roundwood Park provides free public access to all its amenities. The park is well-equipped with public toilets, picnic areas, seating, and a café serving food and drink. It welcomes families, dog walkers, sports enthusiasts, and anyone seeking relaxation or community connection. The park’s location in Harlesden offers convenient access while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere, with scenic views including glimpses of Wembley Stadium from the hilltop. Its long-standing heritage and continuous care ensure it remains a treasured green space for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Castle
3.7 km
Experience the charm of a traditional British pub at The Castle on Portobello Road, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of London.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
3.9 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
4.2 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
3 Abbey Rd.
4.5 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
5 Abbey Rd.
4.5 km
World’s oldest purpose-built recording studio and iconic Beatles landmark in London’s St John’s Wood.
George Orwell Plaque
4.5 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Space Apart Hotel
4.6 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
2 Eastbourne Terrace
5.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty of 2 Eastbourne Terrace, a stunning landmark in London showcasing the city's rich history and modern charm.
Paddington Bear Statue
5.2 km
Visit the charming Paddington Bear Statue in London, a delightful tribute to the beloved character that captures the hearts of tourists and locals alike.
Royal Free Hospital
5.3 km
Discover the Royal Free Hospital, a historic healthcare institution in London, blending tradition with modern medical excellence.
Paddington Basin
5.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Paddington Basin, London's enchanting waterside destination filled with modern architecture and relaxing scenery.
The Tower House
5.4 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival townhouse in London, blending medieval artistry with rock legend heritage.
Middlesex University London
5.4 km
Discover Middlesex University London, where education meets culture in a vibrant campus setting, just a stone's throw from the heart of the city.
Lancaster Gate
5.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Lancaster Gate, a picturesque haven in London perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
The Fan Bridge
5.4 km
Explore The Fan Bridge in Paddington Basin, London, a stunning architectural landmark offering unique views and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Unmissable attractions to see
Photography Tours At Night Ltd
0.8 km
Unlock your creative potential with expert-led night photography tours capturing London’s iconic urban landscapes after dark.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, a stunning Hindu temple that enchants every visitor.
Kensal Green Cemetery
2.2 km
London’s first commercial garden cemetery, a tranquil historic parkland with royal burials, iconic monuments, and rich Victorian heritage.
Queen's Park
2.6 km
Historic and vibrant, Queen's Park offers a lush green escape with rich community spirit and excellent London connectivity.
Wembley Stadium
3.1 km
Explore Wembley Stadium, London’s iconic 90,000-seat arena steeped in sporting glory and legendary music performances.
Notting Hill
3.4 km
Explore Notting Hill’s colorful streets, iconic market, and vibrant culture in one of London’s most charming neighborhoods.
St Dunstan’s, East Acton
3.4 km
A striking Gothic Revival church with a soaring octagonal spire, embodying Victorian faith and craftsmanship in East Acton.
Cambridge Gdns
3.4 km
Charming Notting Hill street with historic homes, leafy communal gardens, and vibrant local culture in the heart of London’s Kensington and Chelsea.
Museum of Brands
3.5 km
Step into a vibrant Time Tunnel tracing 200 years of British brands, design, and consumer culture at London’s Museum of Brands in Notting Hill.
Portobello Road Market
3.7 km
Explore London’s iconic Portobello Road Market, a vibrant blend of antiques, vintage fashion, fresh food, and lively street culture in Notting Hill.
The Blue Door Notting Hill Film
3.7 km
Discover the iconic blue door of Notting Hill at 280 Westbourne Park Road, a beloved symbol of romance and cinema in vibrant West London.
Notting Hill House of Colors
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Notting Hill House of Colors, where pastel streets meet lively markets and rich cultural heritage in the heart of London.
St Lukes Mews
3.7 km
Discover the colorful charm and cinematic history of St Luke's Mews, a serene cobbled street in the heart of Notting Hill.
Upside Down House - Westfield White City
3.8 km
Step into London’s vibrant Upside Down House at Westfield White City for a mind-bending photo adventure that flips reality on its head.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
3.8 km
Discover literary treasures and cinematic magic at The Notting Hill Bookshop, a charming West London landmark famed for its iconic film connection.
Essential places to dine
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
3.5 km
Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
3.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
La mia Mamma Notting Hill
3.8 km
Experience authentic Italian regional cuisine prepared by real mammas in a warm, lively Notting Hill trattoria setting.
Osteria Napoletana
3.8 km
Cozy Neapolitan eatery in Notting Hill serving authentic southern Italian classics with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere.
The Sushi Co - Notting Hill
3.9 km
Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
3.9 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
The Ledbury
4.0 km
Experience world-class Modern European fine dining in Notting Hill at The Ledbury, a 3-Michelin-starred culinary gem blending British ingredients with French elegance.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
4.0 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
Core by Clare Smyth
4.2 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
4.2 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
4.2 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Cocotte Notting Hill
4.4 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
The Ladbroke Arms
4.5 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
The Shed
4.9 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
4.9 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Centre London
2.7 km
Discover a unique blend of gifts, souvenirs, and practical items at Gift Centre London, your one-stop shop for memorable finds.
Unique London
3.0 km
A vibrant clothing boutique on Kilburn High Road, offering unique fashion finds and personal service in a diverse, lively London neighbourhood.
Antique Clothing Shop
3.4 km
Discover timeless threads and retro glamour at this Portobello Road gem, where antique clothing whispers stories from London's stylish past amid market vibrancy.
Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique
3.6 km
Discover Jovonna's feminine edge on Portobello Road: classic meets contemporary in Notting Hill's fashion heartbeat.
Hangout Clothing
3.6 km
Discover designer flair on Portobello Road at Hangout Clothing, where trendy threads meet Notting Hill's bohemian buzz in a chic boutique haven.
Goldsmith Vintage
3.8 km
Discover chic vintage treasures at Goldsmith Vintage on bustling Portobello Road, where timeless fashion meets Notting Hill's iconic market charm.
Unique Globe Curiosities Gift Shop
3.9 km
Explore the Unique Globe Curiosities Gift Shop – a whimsical haven of memorable gifts and souvenirs in Wembley.
The Blue Door
4.0 km
Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
The London Heritage
4.0 km
A boutique heritage hotel in Canary Wharf blending historic elegance with modern luxury and wellness amenities.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
4.1 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
4.3 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
4.3 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Appletree boutique
4.6 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
The gift store
4.6 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Notting hill store
4.7 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The White Horse
3.3 km
A stylish British pub in Wembley Park offering quality ales, elevated pub fare, and versatile event spaces near Wembley Stadium.
Bobby Fitzpatrick
3.5 km
Step into a vibrant 1970s-themed cocktail bar in West Hampstead, where expertly crafted rum drinks meet retro charm and playful culinary twists.
Love
3.6 km
Intimate Portobello Road cocktail bar with polished service, crafted drinks and a warm, late‑night Notting Hill atmosphere.
The Pelican
3.6 km
Notting Hill's gastropub gem: robust British plates, craft ales, and sustainable flair in a revived 150-year-old corner boozer.
The Elgin
3.6 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The Quiet Night Inn
3.6 km
Lively Notting Hill pub with roof terrace, local brews, games, live sports, and open mic nights—perfect for casual hangs and private events.
The Little Yellow Door
3.7 km
Notting Hill's quirky flatshare bar where cocktails flow from teacups, games spark laughs, and every night feels like a spontaneous house party in a colorful home.
The Week
3.9 km
Cozy Notting Hill bar on Elgin Crescent, blending craft cocktails and warm vibes in West London's chicest corner. Ideal for intimate evenings amid Victorian charm.
Trailer Happiness
3.9 km
Notting Hill's kitschy tiki basement bar pours rum-heavy daiquiris and tropical twists amid plush, indulgent vibes—prime for rowdy W11 nights.
Portobello Star
3.9 km
Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.
The Earl of Lonsdale
4.1 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
Naked & Famous Bar
4.1 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Walmer Castle
4.1 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
The Sun In Splendour
4.5 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
4.7 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
