Beautiful nature and amazing landscapes can be rightly called the true wealth of any region. London is very lucky in this regard because its area is considered one of the most picturesque. It must be said that such a result has been achieved thanks to the participation of the population and the authorities. After all, London’s parks, squares and nature reserves are carefully monitored and cared for. Learn more at londonname.
Among the city’s unique places that impress with their nature, it is quite fair to single out water bodies. They often refer to a specific recreational area and are of great value. In particular, lakes often become a habitat for many fish species.
In addition, such places are often chosen by birds to settle and breed.
Interestingly, London’s lakes are quite often located on the territory of different parks. Why is that? This question is not so easy to answer. Still, there is a theory that it might happen because many London parks began their history several hundred years ago. It means that the presence of lakes in such places isn’t accidental either. After all, London park areas often belong to the palace complexes. So, we can conclude that monarchs decided to place them there at some point. This assumption is very realistic. Moreover, the lake really gives the park a certain nobility and, as you know, monarchs like this trait.
South Norwood Lake is another park lake, as it is located in a park area and has been the centre of one of the most popular recreational areas in London for many years. After all, the reservoir has acquired many components for a full-fledged recreational zone throughout its existence. In particular, we are talking about bowling, basketball courts, tennis courts, football fields, etc.
Still, this article isn’t devoted to entertainment but to the lake itself, which, as already mentioned above, is the centre of local activity.
Historical aspect
Talking about the history of the lake, it is worth starting with its creation.
The lake was originally created to be a full-fledged reservoir for the Croydon Canal, which ran between Croydon and the Grand Surrey Canal from 1809 to 1836.
Popular spot
Over the years, the lake has become more and more popular among local fishermen. As a result, in 2019, the reservoir was officially recognised as a place where you can catch carp, bream and perch.
In addition, Croydon Sailing Club was founded there too. Of course, it also had a very positive effect on the popularity of the reservoir.
Birds habitat

Many species of waterfowl live on the lake. In particular, we are talking about big flocks of crested grebes, herons and ring-necked parakeets.
Fish
2004 was a rather sad year in the history of the lake. Then a significant number of fish died due to blue-green algae in its water. It led to the fact that perch and carp became the predominant species here, as almost all others had unfortunately died out.
It is worth noting that there are many natural sources of food for fish in the lake water. Thus, fish can unimpededly support the population and feel quite comfortable in the reservoir’s conditions, which is very important.
