It’s been a crazy couple of weeks here in London. Running around sorting out rentals and bank formalities, understanding the transport system and tax laws, dressing for the weather (which is so unpredictable), and staying on top of work has me pulling my hair with frustration sometimes.
Still, one rule that I have learnt quite fast is that when the weather turns sunny, you better make the time for a quick sight-seeing day out. Last weekend, we were blessed with the most incredible, sunny day imaginable, so we rushed to make the best of it—having a nice day out at Beckenham Lake and Kelsey Park.
Beckenham is one of the posh areas in the outer southeastern corner of London, and it’s not far from where I am currently – just a quick tram ride away. Yes, I said tram – this part of the city has trams, used for regular commutes, but also quite nice and fancy.
From the tram stop, it’s just a short walk to Beckenham Lake Place.
Beckenham Lake Place
This is an old country estate that’s very recently been converted into a park. It’s an old mansion (built in the 1700s), and the grounds. There is a small pond where you can swim, and just plenty of woodland. It’s a great place for a tramp – dogs are off leash, families are picnicking, people are swimming/running/whatever.
We just walked along enjoying this taste of typical British sightseeing.
The grounds are gorgeous, vast, and there are so many trails to take. We took a short walk around the pond, stopping at a bench to eat our home-made wraps. We then continued on and out to the high street, which is also so very pretty.
The High Street
The high street is incredibly picturesque. We first stopped at the church and took some pics of me in front of the gravestones.
We then walked along admiring the beautiful houses lining the street – stopping for ice creams along the way. Another rule I learnt – take advantage of sunny days by indulging in the cold treats you wouldn’t otherwise.
Yes, I took photos of the most random things along the street. I couldn’t resist the post-box and the double-decker bus in the same shot here. I followed that one up with a photo of the telephone booth 🫣.
Kelsey Park
The second park we visited was another short walk away – just the other side of the high street. Kelsey Park is smaller, but is perfect for a spot of bird-watching.
We took the maximum amount of photos in this park – not because it’s prettier than the other, but the sun was really in its full glory and the light was just so good!
As we were walking out, we saw the cherry blossoms had already started blooming. Possibly an effect of climate change 😥 since they are supposed to be coming out in April only. Still I stopped for a picture 🌸.
By the end of this, we were super-tired. We just strolled back to our tram station and took a tram back home and sacked out in front of the TV for the rest of the day.
End of my first proper sight-seeing day in London – exploring this tiny little corner of the city. Yet to explore any of the main city centers, but we”ll get there slowly. The next weekend looks gloomy and grey, so we may just end up chilling at home.
