Parklands

Parklands Open Space is a unique spot in Upminster, less a traditional park and more a preserved slice of local history. The centerpiece is the ornate, semi-circular arched bridge, a Grade II listed structure built in the 18th century by architect James Paine. After decades of neglect and a long community campaign led by the Friends of Parklands, it was restored in 2016 at a cost of over £100,000. The grounds themselves are quiet and green, offering a pleasant place for a stroll away from the main roads.

The site has deep historical roots, dating back to Roman Britain and the medieval Gaynes Estate. An Iron Age farm was discovered here in 1962, and Bronze Age artifacts from 200 BC were found during excavations in the mid-90s. While there aren't many modern amenities or bustling cafes, the park offers a genuine sense of place and connection to Upminster's past. It's a good spot for those interested in heritage, archaeology, or just a quiet walk in a space that locals fought hard to preserve.