Danson Park: A South East London Oasis for Water Sports and Family Fun
Danson Park, located in the London Borough of Bexley, is a 78-hectare green space that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. The park features a lake perfect for boating, kayaking, and other water sports, as well as a free splash park for children. Managed by Bexley Council, the park is one of South East London's most popular destinations for a cheap weekend day out.
Water-Based Activities at the Lake
Danson Park Adventures operates a variety of water-based activities from the lakeside, including sailing, kayaking, canoeing, bellboating, stand-up paddleboarding, rowing, and powerboating. These activities are open to anyone aged eight and over who is water confident. However, swimming is not permitted in the lake due to hidden hazards such as sudden drops in depth, according to park officials.
Free Splash Park for Children
For younger children, Danson Splash Park offers interactive jets, sprinklers, and water cannons, and is completely free to enter. Families can simply turn up and play without needing to book or pay.
Land-Based Adventures
On dry land, the park offers bouldering and orienteering activities. A new Go Ape high ropes course has been approved for the park, though an official opening date has not yet been announced.
Danson House: A Historic Georgian Villa
Danson House, a Grade I-listed building built in 1766 for Sir John Boyd, is a major attraction within the park. The building fell into disrepair and was declared the most significant building at risk in London by English Heritage in 1995. After a decade of restoration, the interior reopened to the public in 2005 for the first time in 30 years.
Wildlife and Nature
The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The lake, rock garden, bog garden nature reserve, Old English Garden, and Peace Garden attract a variety of species. Over 60 bird species have been recorded, including kingfishers, green woodpeckers, grey herons, great-crested grebes, and raptors such as sparrowhawks, kestrels, peregrine falcons, and red kites. Butterflies and dragonflies, including red admirals, common blues, emperor dragonflies, and broad-bodied chasers, are also frequently spotted.
Food and Drink Options
Visitors can take a break at the Stables Restaurant and Boathouse Café for sit-down meals or coffee, or visit kiosks near the children's playground for lighter snacks and soft drinks.
Getting to Danson Park
The park has entrances on Danson Road, Park View Road at its junction with Danson Road, Danson Lane, and Radnor Avenue. The nearest train stations are Welling and Bexleyheath, both about 20 to 30 minutes' walk away. Local buses serving the area include the 132, 96, 89, B13, B14, and B16. For drivers, parking is available off Danson Road, but a charge applies at weekends during the summer.
