The park was originally the private grounds of Lauderdale House, which hosted visitors including Nell Gwyn and Samuel Pepys.
Sir Sydney Waterlow stipulated in his deed of gift that the park must remain a place of quiet recreation, prohibiting noisy sports.
The park's ponds are the remnants of a system once used to supply water to the surrounding area.
It is a Grade II registered park on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England.
The site includes a 'natural play' area constructed from logs and wood rather than traditional metal playground equipment.
Waterlow Park is a 26-acre public space in Highgate, gifted to the public by Sir Sydney Waterlow in 1889 as a 'garden for the gardenless.' The park is situated on a steep hillside, offering notable panoramic views across north and central London. It features a series of three interconnected ponds fed by natural springs, which provide a habitat for diverse waterfowl. The grounds encompass the historic Lauderdale House, a 16th-century building now utilized for arts and community events. The terrain is characterized by winding pathways, mature woodland, and landscaped gardens that retain elements of its Victorian design. It is officially managed by the London Borough of Camden and serves as a significant green corridor connecting to Highgate Cemetery. The park's topography creates microclimates ranging from shaded woodland to open, sun-drenched grassy slopes.
The bench at the top of the central sloping lawn looking south toward the London skyline.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the park's steep, sloping paths comfortably.
Visit the visitor centre within Lauderdale House for exhibitions and local historical information.
Bring a picnic, as the designated lawn areas are ideal for views of the skyline.
Attempting to climb the steep grassy slopes when wet, as they become very slippery.
Cyclists are restricted to designated paths; keep dogs under control near the ponds to protect local bird life.
