Potters Fields Park: Riverside Green Oasis with Historic Roots by Tower Bridge

Historic Origins and Cultural Legacy

Potters Fields Park sits on land steeped in history, once home to the English Delftware pottery industry dating back to the 17th century. The area’s name appears on maps as early as 1681, linked to the Pickleherring Pottery founded by Dutch potter Christian Willhelm. This pottery was internationally renowned, producing distinctive designs featuring sweeping leaves and foliage, motifs now echoed in the park’s granite seating and decorative steel portal at the Tooley Street entrance. The proximity to the Thames was vital, as clay was transported by ship to fuel the pottery trade. Though pottery production ceased by the early 18th century, the area evolved into a hub for warehouses trading cotton, ivory, and sugar. The Great Fire of Tooley Street in 1861 devastated much of the riverside, reshaping the landscape that would eventually become the park.

A Serene Urban Sanctuary by the Thames

Today, Potters Fields Park offers a peaceful refuge from the city's bustle, with expansive lawns, whispering trees, and quiet walkways. The park’s gardens, designed by celebrated landscape architect Piet Oudolf, feature seasonal and medicinal plantings that provide year-round color and shelter for local wildlife. Its riverside granite terraces invite visitors to sit and relax while soaking in sweeping views of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Gherkin, and City Hall. The park’s layout balances open spaces with intimate, contemplative areas, including a tranquil section near Tooley Street designed for quiet reflection.

A Hub for Community and Cultural Events

Potters Fields Park is a vibrant venue for a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from food festivals and cultural celebrations to live music performances like the London Band Week. Its open lawns and flexible spaces accommodate large gatherings and smaller community activities alike. The park’s management by a dedicated not-for-profit trust ensures ongoing care and the ability to host events that enrich local cultural life. Nearby St John’s Churchyard complements the park with additional recreational facilities including a children’s play area, outdoor table tennis, and wildlife habitats.

Artistic and Architectural Features

The park’s design thoughtfully integrates artistic references to its pottery heritage, notably through a laser-cut steel portal at the Tooley Street entrance adorned with Delftware patterns. This feature pays homage to the historic craftsmanship once central to the area. The planting schemes by Piet Oudolf enhance the park’s aesthetic appeal, creating a dynamic, natural tapestry that changes with the seasons. Granite seating and sunken lawn areas provide both functional and visual interest, making the park a well-crafted blend of historic narrative and contemporary landscape architecture.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Open 365 days a year, Potters Fields Park welcomes visitors for a variety of activities including picnicking, dog walking, quiet contemplation, and enjoying spectacular riverside views. It is accessible via multiple entrances from Tooley Street, Tower Bridge Road, the Queen’s Walk, and Shad Thames. Public transport options include London Bridge and Tower Hill tube stations, along with several bus routes serving the area. The park offers amenities such as seating areas and nearby food and drink options, making it a comfortable destination for families, solo visitors, and groups alike.

Environmental and Community Stewardship

Managed by the Potters Fields Park Management Trust, the park benefits from a focused maintenance and management program that preserves its unique character and ecological value. The gardens support local wildlife, and the park’s design encourages sustainable use and community engagement. Recent refurbishments have enhanced the park’s natural features and added facilities like Blossom Square, a riverside space with cherry trees and outdoor seating, reinforcing its role as a cherished green space within London’s urban fabric.