Chestnut Sunday – Bushy Park
The Friends of Bushy and Home Parks are delighted to announce the revival of Chestnut Sunday this Spring. It will capture both the historic and traditional spirit of this 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 – our physical and our mental well-being is hugely improved when we visit parks for an hour or two. 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.
So bring your friends and your families and enjoy a Picnic in the Park in on Chestnut Sunday.
There will also be a gallery of stunning photographs celebrating Bushy Park wildlife.
Guided nature walks will be available throughout the afternoon, for all ages, led by Park Rangers and Friends’ volunteers.
Children (and others) are encouraged to wear fancy dress to add to the fun.
You can make tasty additions to your own home-made picnics from kiosks in the park and the Pheasantry café, and ice cream van.
Between 12.00 and 16.00 the afternoon fun happens in the large lawn area between the Diana car park and the children’s playground.
Chestnut Sunday remains an important part of this park’s history. Come and enjoy it the way the Victorians did. Leave your car at home, come on the omnibus, on your bone-shaking bicycle, or by Shanks’s pony.
Please note: Original plans are changed from what was previously advertised.
Free musical entertainment will no longer be possible. That is because the Friends are unable to arrange the numbers of volunteers to safely manage the stewarding. We are disappointed, but safety is paramount.
