Crystal Palace Park is well worth a closer look. It offers everything and more you could possibly want in a park.

Start out by walking up the majestic terrace of steps flanked by statues – reminders of the impressive structure that was the original Crystal Palace. The area at the top is somewhat faded and crumbling but the views from here are wonderful and the sheer scale is awesome.

Then, walking down from the steps, you can head straight on towards the National Sports Stadium where you might be lucky enough to catch an athletics training session or watch the local American football team warming up.

Head left and you pick up a path that takes you round the edge of the park, passing the enormous outdoor amphitheatre which is occasionally used for outdoor concerts and makes for a great picnic spot. Wandering on, there are small paths, wide avenues, secluded tree lined spots and huge open grass areas.

Bang in the middle is a children’s playground with swings and climbing frames galore. And just when you think you have seen it all, you will find the entrance to an area that has ponds and streams, ducks and wildfowl. This is a great area to walk round with buggies as it’s all on one level.

The thing that will stop you in your tracks here though are the giant prehistoric creatures. Courtesy of the Victorians, they’re made of stone and have been there since 1854! Not what you might expect in a London park but a fantastic and amusing find amongst the ducks!

Image courtesy of zoer on Flickr