Streatham Common

One of my closest open spaces and one that hides unexpected secrets. From the wide and noisy main road, Streatham Common is an expanse of grass with the odd tree and an occasional outbreak of circus. Above its highest ridge though it disappears into surprisingly wild deciduous woodland, which is filled with little glades and meandering trails. Then hidden right in the middle is a network of gardens, including the very well-maintained English Garden and the newly-renovated water garden. Even further from Streatham High Road a track leads past an ornate gatehouse into the separate domain of Norwood Grove, which features in a few of the winter photographs. This is not to speak ill of the open grass though, as looking down from the ridge there is an impressive view over south London and Croydon, a good spot to watch the passage of the weather.