History of Finsbury Park

For over 250 years the site of Finsbury Park has entertained Londoners. Originally there was just a teahouse next to a wood, then a tavern.

In 1869, after nearly 30 years of debate and local pressure, it finally become a park - the 'People’s Park'.

Timeline

1869

The octagonal wild-fowl house is built on the island which is designed as a bird sanctuary and an additional storey to the Lodge was approved.

1873

Gates installed to the entrance of the park.

1874

Large mowing machine bought and 25,000 plants distributed.

1881

Erection of gymnasium and water closets.

1886

Bands started to ask for permission to play in the park.

1888

Ladies cloakroom approved.

1889

London County Council took over the running of the park.

1893

Finsbury Park ranked as a first-class park. In the same year it is reported that an elephant named Jim had become loose from its keeper and escaped into the park causing damage to the bandstand.

1906

Piccadilly Line opened with tracks running right under the park.

1950

The London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Sir Adrian Boult performed at the Finsbury Park Theatre.

1986

The Friends of Finsbury Park was formed.

1990

The first Fleadh music festival took place.

2005

Finsbury Park underwent a £5 million Heritage Lottery Funded restoration and improvement programme.

2007

In recognition of the restoration and improvement programme, Finsbury Park was awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award in 2007.

The information above has been sourced from the 'A Park of Finsbury' publication, complied by Hugh Hayes.

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