Park of the week

204. Brent River Park

Brent River Park is a large green space which is divided into two by the River Brent.

It was created as part of the River Brent Restoration Project (a wider flood alleviation) in the nineteen eighties when the Benighted North Circular was widened, from Tokyngton Recreation Ground on the west of the river, opened, and on the east by St Raphael's Open Space. The latter was set out at the end of the Second World War when the first housing on the St Raphael’s Estate was built. To these parks has been added a river path to the north.

On the newly formed riverbanks wetland plants have established - some originally planted but others are colonising naturally. A walk along the open space leads to Wembley Stadium.

In 2012, as part of environmental improvements in the park, a structure known as the Climate Pavilion was built in the park. It has four overlapping roof sections that symbolise the damage done to buildings by flooding, and beneath it are underground ponds that form part of the flood protection system. 

To support wildlife and increase diversity, in the spring and summer months, the grassed areas and flowers are allowed to grow and set seed. Before being cut back in the autumn. This wildflower meadow forms part of Brent’s 7-mile Bee Corridor of wildflowers, set up from 2019-21 with the aim of supporting the dwindling local bee population.

The park has plenty of open green space, a playground and a sports hall. Pebble mosaics are part of the park's features, along walking paths.

There is no car park but parking spaces are available on nearby streets. 

Judith Field

Brent River Park, 174 Vivian Ave, Wembley HA9 6RP