A walk in the Park | Burgess Park

The winter seems to be lingering around London like its here to stay – I hope not! For a split second I thought the sun come out and quickly put on my boots to get some fresh air. It’s been raining none stop lately that when it finally stopped it was really a chance see if there were any buildings still standing after the 100mph winds we have had as well as to take a walk and sample the cool fresh air in one of my favorite parks. Not only because its a short walk from my flat but its peaceful with lush green fields all year round but even better when spring comes in and adds a bit of colour with blooming flowers. Developed as a result of regeneration after this area was badly bombed in World War II. I also delight in that fact that the park – Burgess Park was named after a woman. Not just any woman, the first woman Mayor around these parts. Jessie Burgess was Camberwell’s first woman Mayor in 1973.



Burgess Park was re-transformed in 2012 with a beautiful lake, kids playing fields and an extension that now includes BMX park. This is fastly turning out into a favourite spot in the park. On dry crisp nights I can come here and watch the brave and crazy talented kids and adults alike doing 360s on BMX bikes on the flood light lit tracks. I also can’t wait for picnics and barbecues in the park. Another reason why I cannot wait for summer to come is that there is one section of the park that is lined with trees producing the sweetest berries. You bring lunch, I have the fruity dessert covered! Another cool spot is the little mound or hill in the middle of the park the gives stunning views of the city skyline when night falls on London. Just beautiful!

What I love about this area is that it also allows me to travel without leaving the country. My little secret on the Old Kent Road is the Moroccan Cafe. Well not so secret now. Don’t say I never tell you anything. This is a dentist’s nightmare and Bee’s haven of course! French speaking Moroccans will tell you a story or two if you stick around for a cappuccino and the freshly baked cakes and baklava on view. Not that I need that much arm twisting, considering the colourful delights of Arabic and French baking that is always enticingly on display. In addition to the cafe, right across the street is an Ethiopian restaurant that would have Gordon Ramsey swearing like a sailor at just how tongue bitingly good the food here is and that includes the vegetarian option too. Ahhh. Welcome to my happy place. Just don’t go revealing my little secret spots to anyone.