Outdoor Gym (Free)

Sarah, your dedicated organiser, wants to share a friendly note with the sports community about Betts Park in Anerley, London SE20.

Betts Park is a beloved local space spread across 13 acres of Penge Common. It offers plenty of activities, from a children's playground and basketball courts to a football field, all set in a historically rich area. The park, owned by the London Borough of Bromley, is supported and maintained by the Friends of Betts Park, a committed group of community volunteers. They work tirelessly to keep alive the vision of Frederick Betts, who made the park a free place for recreation and exercise back in 1928.

Located at 200 Anerley Road, Betts Park is well-loved by locals. To stay updated on park news and events, you can subscribe at BettsParkSE20@gmail.com. The park always encourages community involvement and welcomes anyone interested in volunteering or sponsoring.

One of the many facilities you'll find in the park is the free outdoor gym, accessible around the clock. There are also lovely picnic spots and benches throughout the park, including an enclosed play area for families. Sports enthusiasts can make use of the multi-use sports court, complete with basketball hoops and football goals. Do keep in mind that the court can get busy, especially during summer, so it's a good idea to arrive early.

For the kids, there's a playground within a dog-free fenced area, which was recently upgraded with vibrant new line markings. While the park’s narrow paths don’t actively cater to cycling, cautious cyclists are still welcome as long as they are considerate of other visitors.

Betts Park is also a great place for leisurely activities like strolling and nature watching. Benches are scattered throughout, offering both shaded and sunny spots to relax. Over time, more benches will be added to better your visit.

A standout feature of Betts Park is the Croydon Canal, a 560ft remnant edged by an accessible towpath. Here, you might spot families of moorhens and mallards, occasional kingfishers, and even Egyptian geese in the winter. Though the canal is full of life with newts and sticklebacks, swimming and fishing are not allowed.

Dog owners are welcome to walk their pets in the park, except in the fenced playground area. Remember to follow the dog walking regulations set by the London Borough of Bromley. Please note that professional dog walking is not permitted due to bylaws against commercial activities.

Sarah is excited to see how the outdoor gym at Betts Park can help everyone stay active and enjoy the natural beauty around them. With its dedication to community engagement and beautiful surroundings, it truly is a gem in Anerley, London.