fbpx

Stage

Potter's Field

Potter's Field

Potter's Field

Previous stage
Photo: Colin Wing
Enlarge
Next stage

Directions

Keeping the cathedral to your right, follow Cathedral Street round to the right into Montague Close. Pass under the approach to London Bridge along Tooley Street, merging with a busier road converging from your right. Follow the cycle lane past converted warehouses for just over 500 metres, until you come to the ornamental railings of Potter's Field on the left.

Description

Maps of 1682 refer to this site as Potts Fields and excavations in 1965 revealed that it was the site of the earliest delftware kilns in England, which were established here c.1618. It was also the site of the graveyard of St Olave's church and a few gravestones remain.

It was laid out as a recreation ground in 1888 by St Olave's Board of Works, later converted to a public garden in 1909 by the London County Council. In the 21st century it became part of the landscaped public open space adjoining the river adjacent to the new GLA City Hall designed by Foster Architects and at the south-west foot of Tower Bridge, of which it provides excellent views. In May 2007 an extensive re-landscaping scheme was completed, with a new layout of paths, lawns, planting of trees and beds, fixed seating; the gravestones from the old churchyard now exposed on wall; new gate screens on Tooley Street. The park has been the venue for various outdoor events.

Further information on LGT Inventory

Where next?

Previous
Stage
   Next
Stage
  
Map
   Back to
Outline