The Folklore of South London Parks

njoy some larks in south London parks. London writer and tour guide Chris Roberts talks about history, development and challenges facing open spaces in London. They are places of joy, relaxation and adventure and the setting for his fascinating new collection of short stories, South Parks (reviewed in FT458, and available tonight), in which he explores folklore, myths and the cultures around or linked to London’s open spaces. There are talking statues, strange cults, pagan estate agents and a very wrong horse. There are foxes and a vengeful toilet goddess – but also stories of love, friendship, family life and growing up. Meanwhile in Brockwell Park a song as old as time is sung again and in Streatham Common some herbivores revert to their man-eating roots.

Come and celebrate these places to play in, stay in and spend the day.