Oaks Park

The Oaks was one of the great sporting country houses of 18th century England. It was owned by the 12th Earl of Derby and his grandson the 13th Earl from 1771 to 1834. They used it as base for horse racing and the house and peerage gave their names to two famous Epsom races, The Oaks and the Derby, first run in 1779 and 1780. The house was demolished between 1956 and 1960 but important features survive including the bake house, the stables, a greenhouse and the park landscape (See link below for more on the history of Oaks Park).

Oaks Park in Summer Oaks Park is a mixture of landscapes, including formal horticulture, natural chalk meadows, woodlands and informal parkland.

The park is beloved by dog walkers and people interested in walking for recreation. There are a number of interesting walks based in Oaks Park and many that pass through the park:

Walks

  • Section 6 of the London Loop.: The London Outer Orbital Path "LOOP" is a 150 miles walking route around Greater London, divided into 24 sections. Section 6 covers the section from Coulsdon South to Banstead Downs.
  • Sutton Countryside Walk: This is a popular and well used walk of about five miles. From Oaks Park,the walk crosses the lavender fields adjacent to Oaks Farm, passes through farmland, small holdings and woodland enabling walkers to discover the wildlife as well as enjoy the open air.
  • Oaks Park Nature Trail: A two mile stroll through the formal gardens, meadowland and woodland of Oaks Park.
  • The Downlands Circular Walks
  • The Wandle Oaks Link is a 2.2 mile walk from The Grove Park to Oaks Park.

Orienteering Course

 In association with Mole Valley Orienteering  the council have installed an Orienteering Course.

Camp Site

In the centre of the golf course and accessed via a path, is a mixture of mown grass areas and woodland. The site can be booked by community groups through the Councils Leisure Link Service on 0208 8770 5000.

Artist Studios

 Oaks Park Studios  are open to the public each year.  The artists get the opportunity to showcase their work and the public can ask questions and are encouraged to take part.

The Friends of Oaks Park

Formally constituted in 1997, the Friends are elected by users of the park to represent their interests. The group work in partnership with the council to promote the park and to improve the amenities. From time to time the group organise working parties of volunteers to undertake specific project from tree planting and spring bulb planting to maintenance of park benches. Membership is by subscription and is open to anyone who lives or works in the borough or uses the park and shares the objectives of the Friends. If you would like to join contact Jeff Turner (treasurer) on 020 8669 2782.

Cafe

This very popular facility within Oaks Park offers hot and cold meals, snacks, cold drinks and ices. The cafe is a welcome stop for walkers on the various routes that pass through the site.

Opening times: 9am - 5pm everyday (kitchen closes at 3pm)

Cafe is closed for: 1 week over Christmas period and on Polling days

Cafe contact number: 020 8770 0041

Other Facilities:

Toilets including a disabled toilet

Dog Bins- To report an overflowing dog bin please telephone 020 8770 5070.

Address: Oaks Park, Croydon Lane, Carshalton, Surrey SM7 3BA

Area: 33.57 Hectares

Opening Times: The park is open at all times, however the vehicle barriers are only open between 07.30am until dusk daily.

Transport to Oaks Park:

Bicycle: National Cycle Route number 20

Bus Route: S4, 154, 166

Train:Carshalton Beeches Station (2.8km/1.75 miles)

Car: Car Park by Oaks Park Cafe

Disabled Parking: 2 bays adjacent to the stable yard (artists' studio)