Postman's Park

Entering Postman's Park from the St Martin Le Grand entrance.

Postman's Park is one of those hidden gems that I love to visit.

Despite it's proximity to the Museum of London, it was always a quiet place to visit, with tourists either not knowing about it, or simply ignoring this little oasis.

Now that the Museum of London has closed, it is moving to Smithfields, I expect that even fewer people, except those in the know, will visit this wonderful place.

Postman's Park fountain.

I think another of the reasons that many people aren't aware of Postman's Park is the entrances. 

The St Martin Le Grand's entrance, with its iron gate, looks like you are entering a churchyard, which, I suppose, you are.

The King Edward Street entrance, on the other hand, gives more away, but it still doesn't reveal everything that awaits those who enter the park.

With plenty of benches and a grassy area, all sheltered by trees, there is always somewhere to sit and forget about your worries, even if just a few minutes.

Shrubs, ornamental trees and flowers all add to this pocket garden's charm. 

A fountain, when it is working, also adds to the charm of the place. 

A squirrel visiting Postman's Park.

One of the main reasons to make sure that you visit this pocket park is to see G. F. Watt's Memorial to Heroic Self-sacrifice, which is a unique memorial.

Entering from King Edward Street.

Brief History

Postman's Park got its name because of its proximity to the General Post Office on St Martin Le Grand. In the summer months postal workers could often be seen using the park, during their lunch break.

Commemorative Stone.

Postman's Park opened in 1880 and is made up of the churchyard of St Leonard's (Foster Lane), St Botolph's (Aldgate) and the graveyard of Christ Church (Newgate Street).

Gravestones.

More land, bordering Little Britain, was added in 1883.

St Botolph's-without-Aldersgate.

In 1887 George Frederick Watts conceived the idea of a national memorial to heroic men and women and dedicated a wall to this cause, in 1900.

This wall is covered in tiles that give brief notes about the deeds of those who adorn the memorial.

Although they are all tragic stories, there are a few that really stand out.

A true hero.