Raphael Park, 17.8 hectares in size, is the town centre park for Romford, and is much loved and visited by the people of Havering and beyond. It represents a fine example of the endurance of original parkland, part of the historically important Gidea Park estate, and was sympathetically transferred into a public park at the start of the 20th century by Sir Herbert Raphael. The history of the site dates back to Saxon times, when it formed part of the royal manor serving the ancient Saxon palace at Havering. 

The park lodge has been adapted for reuse as a base for the new park manager, with a new community and education resource and café built as part of a new extension. A further kiosk café has also been built to serve the play area. The project will safeguard the conservation and enhancement of the park’s biodiversity, and will increase community involvement in the park through the proposed programme of activities, events and volunteering opportunities. Horticultural activities and standards will also be enhanced and extended.

“There’s something for everyone, no matter age or ability, and I hope that residents make the most of all it has to offer.”

Simon Parkinson, Head of Culture and Leisure for Havering Council

In regard to future developments, an activity programme of art, music and theatre events at the restored bandstand and redeveloped theatre garden will add an enhanced cultural element to the park, as well as two additional general events or festivals, a programme of accompanied walks and trails and a programme of healthy events – all to encourage wider audiences to engage in the park’s heritage.

Simon Parkinson, Head of Culture and Leisure for Havering Council, said: “Raphael Park really does look wonderful since the restoration, thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Veolia North Thames Trust - and what a momentous time for this to fall, on such a significant anniversary. 

“There’s something for everyone, no matter age or ability, and I hope that residents make the most of all it has to offer.”