Did you know that...
The first mention of London Fields comes from the 13th century. A document mentions this E8 area as common pasture land. The park here dates from the 16th century. Back then, it was called London Field. The current name is used starting with the 19th century. The park extends over 12.65 hectares. A part of it was used for development. In 1860, massive development was planned here but the project didn’t go through and the area remained undivided. During World War II, an anti-aircraft battery was placed here. One can still see the tarmac under the grass in the south-west corner of the park. There was also a bomb shelter close to the tennis courts.
Many of the houses on the northern and eastern sides of London Fields were destroyed by the Blitz during World War II. The arc of Plane trees marks the area where these houses were found. The houses were not rebuilt, the land is now part of the park. The London Fields park has numerous facilities. It has a cricket pitch, tennis courts, a BMX track, and a table tennis area. There’s also a heated outside swimming pool that also has a cafe. The barbecue and grass areas attract many people looking to spend relaxing moments in the outdoors. Pub on the Park dates from 1855. It was originally known as the Queen Eleanor pub. The name changed in 1992.
Unfortunately, the area has been connected with a few gun crimes in the past. The London Fields gang, for example, operates in and around the area. In 2010, the gang shot a 16-year-old girl. The Broadway Market is an amazing place where you can experience all the best things that East London has to offer. Enjoy the numerous pubs, restaurants, shops, and food stalls. The Holly Street Estate is the largest London Fields housing estate.
