The Victorian parks movement was born from the realisation that green spaces are important for the wellbeing of people – whether rich or poor. In the 19th century suburban parks gave an essential respite from the grime of the industrial city and the monotony of terraced houses that sprang in the suburbs with the coming of the railways.

We look at the three parks that were created in Brent in the 19th century: Roundwood Park, Queen’s Park and Gladstone Park. They are all representative of the Victorian vision of wellbeing and recreation, but each of them has different origins and features which make them unique in the history of our borough. We uncover hidden stories of our favourite parks with a wealth of historic pictures, maps and modern photographs.