BUSHY PARK’S FAMOUS CHESTNUT SUNDAY IS COMING BACK!
The traditional and popular family day known as Chestnut Sunday in Bushy Park is being revived and will take place on Sunday, May 12th, it was confirmed today.
Organisers, The Friends of Bushy and Home Parks announced the details today and it is hoped the special day will capture both the historic and traditional spirit of this popular Victorian family day out in Bushy Park.
Back then the event celebrated the blossom on the Horse Chestnut trees along the avenue. It was a simple way for London based folk to experience the fresh air and greenery of the countryside without venturing too far from the city.
As has been proved scientifically – especially during COVID – physical and our mental well-being is hugely improved when we visit parks for an hour or two and Chestnut Sunday serves the same purpose for people now, as it did in the late 1800s.
During the Covid epidemic lockdowns this event was suspended.
It used to be organised by The Royal Parks and had grown in popularity over several decades. This year the event is organised and funded by the Friends of Bushy and Home Parks, so it returns to a simple historic basis and families are encouraged to enjoy a Picnic in the Park in the designated area near the Children’s Playground.
Apart from enjoying the park itself, there will be added atrtactions too:
- There will be free musical entertainment during the afternoon from a variety of performers. (details will be updated)
- A gallery of stunning photographs celebrating park wildlife will be situated in a marquee on the lawn.
- A unique exhibition about Camp Griffiss during WWII, where General Eisenhower planned D-Day, will be on display in another marquee.
- There will be free guided nature walks throughout the afternoon, for all ages, led by Park Rangers and Friends’ volunteers.
- Children and adults are encouraged to wear fancy dress for fun.
Visitors will be able to add to their homemade picnics with catering available from the kiosks, the Pheasantry Café, and the ice cream van near the playground.
All the activities and attractions will happen on the lawn area between the Diana car park and the children’s playground between midday and 4pm on Sunday, May 12th
TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH MORE DETAILED NEWS OF THE EVENT AND ACTIVITIES GO TO https://fbhp.org.uk/
