Stanmore Country Park, London facts for kids
Stanmore Country Park is a large public park in Stanmore, a part of the London Borough of Harrow. It covers about 30.7 hectares, which is like 75 football fields! This park is special because it's also a Local Nature Reserve and an important place for nature in London. The local council, Harrow London Borough Council, owns and takes care of it.
History of the Park
This beautiful park used to be part of a big estate called Warren House. This house was built way back in the 1700s. In 1937, two councils, Middlesex County Council and Harrow Urban District Council, bought the land. They wanted to make sure everyone could enjoy it as a public green space. Later, the Greater London Council looked after it. Finally, in 1976, the park was given to the London Borough of Harrow, who still manage it today.
Amazing Plants and Trees
Stanmore Country Park is home to some very old trees, showing that parts of it are ancient woodland. This means the forest has been there for hundreds of years! You can find special trees like the wild service tree and mature hornbeam trees.
In the open grassy areas, you'll mostly see plants like common bent and Yorkshire fog. If you walk through the wetter parts of the park, you might spot tufted hair grass.
Wildlife in the Park
The park is full of different animals. You might see Reeve's muntjac, which are small deer, and red foxes. Some people have also reported seeing European badgers, weasels, and even wild boars, but these sightings are not officially confirmed.
The park is also a great place for birdwatching! You can spot many types of birds, including different members of the tit family, blackbirds, magpies, and crows. If you're lucky, you might even see bigger birds like tawny owls, buzzards, sparrowhawks, and kestrels flying overhead.
How to Visit
You can easily get into Stanmore Country Park from Kerry Avenue and Dennis Lane. It's a wonderful place to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors!
