Riddlesdown is a 43 hectare (104 acre) area of chalk scrub and
grassland lying within the London green belt. It is an
important and diverse part of our local cultural and natural
heritage, shaped by its geology, history and previous land
use. Riddlesdown remains part of a ‘green arc’ of parks,
gardens and open spaces that links London with the wider
countryside of Surrey.
Thousands of years of human activity on Riddlesdown has left a
range of features, including earthworks, old trackways and the
course of a Roman road. In more recent times, livestock have
grazed pasture and kept open the characteristic downland
landscape. Much of Riddlesdown was designated in 1975 as a
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its ‘largest single
expanse of long-established calcareous scrub in Greater London and
also for its herb-rich grassland’. Riddlesdown Quarry
produced lime from the chalk deposits until the 1960s and is now of
regional importance for its geological interest.
Rangers, contractors and volunteers manage the site so that
present and future generations of visitors can enjoy the open
space. Nature lovers, walkers, cyclists and horse riders
can explore its rights of way, enjoying the tranquillity of this
beautiful chalk downland.
The City Commons are managed to a high standard for the recreation
and enjoyment of the public. In recognition of this each site
proudly flies a Green Flag - an independently judged award
given annually to the best parks and green spaces in England and
Wales.
The City of London
is participating in the 'Million Voices' campaign which aims to
show public satisfaction towards the country's parks and open
spaces through the new GreenSTAT online system. If you would like
to comment on Riddlesdown and how well you feel it is being
managed and maintained,
click here to complete the GreenSTAT
questionnaire.
The City of London
manages over 10,000 acres of green space in and around London for
the recreation and enjoyment of the public.
Find out more about the other spaces.