© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
A short distance from the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf is one of the largest city farms in Europe. This strange mix of urban and rural makes Mudchute Park and Farm a unique attraction for visitors.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
The Isle of Dogs is one of the fastest growing parts of London with a large number of developments, however this is relatively recent phenomenon. Up to the mid 18th century, the vast majority of the Isle of Dogs was uninhabited and used as pastures for animals.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
The large open space where the Mudchute Park and Farm now stands was once grazing land until the mid 19th century when during the building of the nearby Millwall Docks led to the space being used for storage of millions of bricks. After the docks were completed, the area was used to dump the mud that was dredged from Millwall Dock. This mud was transferred from the dock to the field by a pipe leading to the area being called Mudchute. Over time the mud accumulated to create small hills and bumps, but towards the end of the 19th century there was concerns when the mudfield was considered a health hazard and the pipe which was discontinued in 1910.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
After the first World War, the area was used for allotments . At the beginning of the Second World War, the land was used for gun placements to attack the aircraft bombing the docks ( there is an Ack Ack gun in the farm to pay tribute to those who risked their lives). After the war, there were a number of schemes to use the land for housing. However a campaign by local residents and supporters led to the creation of an urban farm in 1977.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
Since then Mudchute Park and Farm has developed into one of the largest city farms in Europe covering 32 acres and is maintained largely by local volunteers. The farm and park has worked hard to create diverse environment that attracts all forms of wild life.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
Farm animals have been introduced over the years to give visitors a variety of experience, with a strong educational aspect with close ties with local schools and other community groups.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
Whilst most visitors come from the local area, the farm and park has increased its visibility to attract visitors from further afield.
© 2019 Visiting London Guide.com – Photograph by Alan Kean
Mudchute Park and Farm is one of the hidden gems of London providing a wide range of rural pleasures near to the urban jungle of Canary Wharf.
For more information and tickets , visit the Mudchute website here
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