The park was historically part of a 18th-century estate designed by landscape architect William Emes.
Beckenham Place Mansion features a unique, rare 'ice house' located on the grounds, used for food storage in the 1700s.
The swimming lake utilizes a natural clay liner and is filtered through a reed bed system rather than chemical treatments.
The park contains one of the oldest ancient woodlands in London, with some oak trees estimated to be over 500 years old.
In 2019, the park underwent a major restoration project that removed the former 18-hole golf course to increase public access.
The mansion served as a school for girls between 1935 and 1960 before being converted to a social and community space.
The park is a designated Site of Borough Importance for Nature Conservation.
Beckenham Place Park is the largest green space in the London Borough of Lewisham, covering 98 hectares of parkland and ancient woodland. The site features the Grade II* listed Beckenham Place Mansion, an 18th-century Georgian manor house currently used as a community and arts venue. A natural swimming lake, converted from a former golf course water feature, is available for open-water swimming. The park incorporates diverse habitats including historic Pleasure Grounds, wildflower meadows, and dense woodland trails. It functions as a public park managed by Lewisham Council, having transitioned from a private golf course in 2018. The landscape retains elements of its 18th-century design, including veteran trees and carriage drives. It serves as a regional biodiversity hotspot with recorded sightings of rare bird species and stag beetles. The mansion interior hosts a variety of independent businesses, artists' studios, and a cafe.
The north-facing view of the Beckenham Place Mansion framed by the mature trees of the Pleasure Grounds.
Check the lake water quality status on the park's official website before planning a swim.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear if visiting the woodland areas during autumn or winter months.
The park spans a large area; use the perimeter trails if you prefer a longer, flatter walking route.
Do not attempt to swim in the river or non-designated water features, as this is prohibited and potentially dangerous.
The swimming lake operates on a seasonal basis, typically from spring through early autumn; mansion opening times for public events vary by season.
Dogs must be kept on leads in designated areas; swimming is strictly permitted only in the designated lake zone.
