Park Facilities
Betts Park has plenty of space for different activities. Bylaws prohibit all commercial activity (including the walking of dogs for profit), but family and free community events are welcomed. Please visit the Bromley Parks website for details on how to book space for events.
There is neither a café nor toilets in Betts Park.
Outdoor Gym
A free outdoor gym is available 24 hours a day to anyone who wants to use it.
Please smile at other users and report any faults to the email address at the foot of this page.
Picnicking
There are plenty of lovely spots for picnicking around the park, plus some picnic benches within the enclosed play area. The best views are had at the canal end of the park with vistas of Shirley Hills.
Sports Court
At the south side of the park is a fenced multi-use sports court with basketball hoops and football goals.
It can get very busy, particularly in summer, so arrive early and be ready to share.
Children's Playground
The children's playground has plenty of safe space for young kids to play in a dog-free fenced area.
In August 2023 the playground was upgraded with colourful new line-markings for creative play.
Cycling
Betts Park does not cater for cyclists as many of the paths are narrow. Careful cyclists who are wary of other park users are welcome.
Strolling and Sitting
Listening to birds in the trees, watching squirrels, chatting with strangers, or simply taking a stroll is what this park was designed for.
There are benches at intervals in shade and sun. More will be added over time.
Croydon Canal
A 560ft remnant of the old canal is bordered by an accessible towpath. You will find resident families of moorhens and mallards, with the occasional kingfisher, and Egyptian geese in winter. The water contains newts and sticklebacks, it is not suitable for swimming or fishing.
Dog Walking
You are welcome to walk and exercise your dog throughout the park, except in the fenced playground area; London Borough of Bromley regulations apply. Professional dog walking is not allowed in Betts Park due to bylaws that prohibit commercial activity.
Football Field
The large football field is great for a kick-around and free to use. The pitch is unmarked and uneven in places, so not recommended for more serious matches.
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Historical Tour
Although the park officially opened in 1928, recorded history of the site dates back to 957AD when it was gifted as part of Penge Common by King Eadwig All-Fair. Click here to download a PDF booklet exploring the history of the site and its many characters.
Betts Park Pre-School
In the heart of the park is Betts Park Pre-School, rated Good by OFSTED, where children can enjoy safe surroundings of fresh air and nature. The pre-school is not operated by Friends of Betts Park, please contact them directly for further information: Betts Park Pre-School
Clarice Fitness
Clarice Wamba is a popular local fitness trainer who runs group and private sessions in Betts Park for all ages and abilities. She is not affiliated to Friends of Betts Park. Please see her website for more details: Clarice Fitness
Accessibility
All entrances and paths are accessible for those with restricted mobility. There is one steep-ish path leading to the canal towpath at the eastern end, which should be taken with caution or can be avoided by using the opposite end of the canal.