Known as the ‘People’s Park’, Victoria Park is one of London’s favourite open spaces. Stretched over a huge 86.18 hectares, this swath of the outdoors is nestled entirely in Tower Hamlets. In the summer it’s often taken over by festivals like Field Day and Lovebox. In May and June 2018 it’s playing host to All Points East, a brand new ten-day event, which includes a three day music festival and a midweek programme of community events. In the autumn park-goers are treated to epic fireworks displays, but that’s not all: parts of the park are Grade II-listed and it was originally landscaped by the famous architect Sir James Pennethorne in 1842. Worth looking out for are the Dogs of Alcibiades statues, Burdett-Coutts Fountain and two stone alcoves from the original London Bridge.
There are two expansive lakes (one with a Chinese pagoda island), a boating pond and Vicky Park is wonderful for youngsters: the V&A Playground is equipped with swings and other bits and bobs to play on and the fantastically designed Pools Playground encourages creative play. It’s also the place to go for outdoor pursuits with tennis courts, a bowling green and running track, plus football and cricket pitches. And if you work up a thirst? There's the Pavilion Café, where you can grab a bite to eat before kicking back in the splendour of Pennethorne's lovely vision.