Sydenham Wells Park

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Coordinates: 51°25′43″N 0°04′06″W / 51.428728, -0.068342

Sydenham Wells Park is located in Sydenham, southeast London. The park derives its name from the medicinal springs, which were discovered there in 1640.

In September 1675 John Evelyn wrote that he returned from a visit to Dulwich 'by certaine medicinal Spa waters at a place called Sydnam Wells, in Lewisham parish, much frequented in summer'.

King George III was amongst those visiting to take the waters which were reputed to taste bitter, due to the presence of Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salts). This may have accounted for a decline in their popularity and the removal of the wells in the mid 19th century.

By the end of the 19th century, due to concern that the site of the wells would be built upon, a local campaign group was formed and successfully lobbied to save the site. As a result, the London County Council bought 7 hectares (18 acres) of Common Ground and created the park.

The park was laid out with broad paths and ornamental plantations. In the south of the park, a system of lakes and streams was created, which was said to represent a miniature version of the Rhine, as a mark of respect for the small German community which resided in the area at the time. The main lake was originally home to a large collection of exotic wildfowl, which has dwindled over the years to predominantly Canada Geese, with some Mallard and Tufted Ducks, Moorhens and Coots.^[1].

The lakes and streams were renovated in the summer of 2000, along with pond and waterside planting.