
Raphael Park
A serene recreational retreat featuring a picturesque lake, landscaped grounds, sports facilities, and a bandstand.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Raphael Park
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene recreational retreat featuring a picturesque lake, landscaped grounds, sports facilities, and a bandstand.
"A true local gem with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful greenery, perfect for walks and family outings."

🎯 Join the Parkrun!
Participate in the free Saturday morning parkrun for a fun, community-driven start to your day. :running:
🎾 Book Tennis Courts
Tennis courts are free to book! Check signage around the courts for booking details. :tennis:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Serene Lake
Central area
A picturesque lake with a fountain, perfect for peaceful strolls and watching ducks.

Romford Shakespeare Theatre
Near the lake
Experience open-air Shakespearean performances during the summer months.

Tennis Courts
Opposite side from the lake
Well-maintained courts available for free booking, ideal for a friendly match.

Children's Playground
Opposite corner to the lake
A dedicated area for kids to play, often undergoing upgrades for more activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Park Amenities & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Join the Parkrun!
Participate in the free Saturday morning parkrun for a fun, community-driven start to your day. :running:
🎾 Book Tennis Courts
Tennis courts are free to book! Check signage around the courts for booking details. :tennis:
☕ Cafe Bites
Grab a bite at the dog-friendly cafe near the lake, offering indoor and outdoor seating. :coffee:
🅿️ Parking Advice
Free parking is available across the road, but remember to register your stay via Ringo or the machine to avoid tickets. :parking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Join the Parkrun!
Participate in the free Saturday morning parkrun for a fun, community-driven start to your day. :running:
🎾 Book Tennis Courts
Tennis courts are free to book! Check signage around the courts for booking details. :tennis:
☕ Cafe Bites
Grab a bite at the dog-friendly cafe near the lake, offering indoor and outdoor seating. :coffee:
🅿️ Parking Advice
Free parking is available across the road, but remember to register your stay via Ringo or the machine to avoid tickets. :parking:
📸 Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the lake, swans, and landscaped grounds, especially during golden hour. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Raphael Park is widely praised as a cherished local gem, lauded for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful lake, and well-maintained grounds. Visitors highlight the excellent tennis courts and the overall pleasant environment for relaxation and family outings. It's considered a vital part of the community's green spaces.
"Raphael Park is a true local gem!
The peaceful atmosphere, beautiful greenery, and well-maintained paths make it a perfect place for a relaxing walk or family outing.
The tennis courts are a real highlight—clean, spacious, and a joy to play on. Whether you're a seasoned player or just having fun, the courts at Raphael Park are fantastic. A lovely community space that truly shines!"
GL
"Very pretty park, part of the "Green lung"a series of linked parks stretching between Romford and Havering Atte Bower. This is the best park with its lovely lake.
I was there for the park run, which was great.
Couple of cafes at either end of the park!"
David Stevens
"Great park to go relax and have a walk around with a combination of water, woodland and open field space to break up your day.
Perfect place for a nice day out with the family or some quiet time alone.
There is free parking available across the road (but you have to register your stay via Ringo or the machine available or you will get a ticket)
The walk around the exterior of the park would take roughly 30 minutes. The children’s park is located in the opposite corner to the lake. There are also tennis courts available for free booking with information available in and around the courts on how to book them out.
There is a large green area for anyone looking to have a picnic or do outdoor sports. If you forgot your picnic or don’t want to bring your own food there is a lovely cafe located near the lake which you can visit with indoor and outdoor seating. From what I remember they are dog friendly also.
Overall a great park for use by all and well maintained by the grounds team."
Sadek Ali
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Raphael Park is located in Romford, within the London Borough of Havering. It's accessible by public transport, with Romford station being the nearest train station. Buses also serve the area. Free parking is available across the road, but requires registration via Ringo or a machine.
Yes, there is free parking available across the road from the park. However, visitors must register their stay using the Ringo app or the on-site machine to avoid receiving a ticket.
Cycling is a great way to reach Raphael Park, especially if you're coming from nearby areas. There are often cycle racks available, and the park itself is pleasant to cycle through, though be mindful of pedestrians.
The closest train station is Romford. From there, you can take a bus or enjoy a walk to the park. Several bus routes also stop near the park, making it easily accessible for London residents.
Yes, Raphael Park is part of a 'Green Lung' series of linked parks stretching between Romford and Havering Atte Bower, offering a beautiful network for exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Raphael Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors.
Raphael Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours can vary slightly, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours.
Yes, for performances by the Romford Shakespeare Theatre, tickets are required. You can find booking information on their website.
The tennis courts at Raphael Park are available for free booking. Information on how to book them is usually posted around the courts themselves.
The parkrun at Raphael Park is a free event. You just need to register online beforehand to get your barcode.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks around the lake, have picnics on the open fields, play on the children's playground, or book the tennis courts. The park also hosts parkrun and the Romford Shakespeare Theatre in summer.
Absolutely! Raphael Park features a dedicated children's playground, a lovely lake with ducks to watch, and open green spaces perfect for picnics and games.
Yes, Raphael Park is dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs around the park, and the cafe near the lake is also reported to be dog-friendly.
The park offers restrooms, a playground, tennis courts, sports fields, and a cafe. There are also picnic areas and benches scattered throughout.
Yes, Raphael Park features a bandstand, which is often used for events and performances, adding to the park's charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located near the lake that offers both indoor and outdoor seating. It's a great spot for a picnic or a meal, and it's dog-friendly.
Definitely! Raphael Park has large green areas perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food or grab something from the cafe.
The cafe, Crem Kitchen, focuses on community, good vibes, and food made with love. While specific menus aren't detailed, it's a local spot offering refreshments.
Being in Romford, there are numerous restaurants and eateries within a short distance of Raphael Park, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, the cafe is ideal for a quick snack, coffee, or a light meal while enjoying the park's scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake with its fountain and swans is a prime photography spot. The landscaped grounds, bandstand, and mature trees also offer beautiful scenic opportunities.
Yes, with its lake, various bird species (like swans), and lush greenery, Raphael Park is excellent for nature photography.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer distractions for capturing serene shots.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, for commercial photoshoots, it's advisable to check with the local council for any specific regulations.
Drone usage in public parks often has strict regulations. It's best to check with the Havering Council for their specific policies on drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grass, or grab a bite from the dog-friendly cafe near the lake. The free tennis courts are also a great option for some family fun if your kids are a bit older.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Beyond the parkrun, the park's paths are ideal for jogging and brisk walks. The tennis courts are also available for free booking, perfect for a game with friends. The expansive grounds allow for various outdoor exercises.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Explore the landscaped grounds and mature trees for diverse shots. The park's 'Green Lung' status means it's a haven for local flora and fauna, making it ideal for capturing wildlife and serene landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Green Lung
The park's layout is designed to offer varied experiences. You can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the water's edge, admire the fountain, or simply find a quiet spot for a picnic. The presence of mature trees and well-maintained flowerbeds adds to the aesthetic appeal, making it a pleasant place to visit throughout the seasons.
Beyond its natural beauty, Raphael Park is a hub for community activities. It hosts the popular Saturday morning parkrun, providing a great opportunity for fitness and social interaction. The Romford Shakespeare Theatre also sets up in the park during the summer, offering open-air performances that draw a crowd.
Family Fun and Recreation
Beyond the playground, the park's open fields are perfect for family picnics, kite flying, or casual games. The lake, with its ducks and the central fountain, provides a calming visual and an opportunity for children to observe local wildlife.
For families looking for more active pursuits, the park offers tennis courts that can be booked for free. This provides a great way for older children and adults to engage in some friendly competition. The overall atmosphere of Raphael Park is welcoming and conducive to a relaxed family day out.
Community and Events
During the summer months, the park transforms into an open-air theatre with the Romford Shakespeare Theatre. Their performances bring a cultural dimension to the park, attracting audiences for evening entertainment under the stars.
Additionally, the presence of Crem Kitchen, a local cafe, further enhances the park's community feel. It serves as a meeting point and a place to refuel, contributing to the park's role as a vibrant local gathering spot.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit