Things to do in Ilford: park walks, local history and art

Spend a few hours in Valentines Park

A walk through Valentines Park can be a simple outing in its own right. The lake, ornamental gardens and mature trees offer a change of pace from the High Road, while play areas and sports facilities give families and active visitors other reasons to go.

Choose an entrance and route that work for your group. Take care beside water, allow for changing weather and use the park's current information for facilities and activities. Organised sessions and sports bookings have their own arrangements; open parkland does not make every activity drop-in.

Plan a park visit

Explore the mansion and Ilford history

Valentines Mansion brings period rooms, an exhibition space and artists' studios into a historic house within the park. The gardens include several distinct areas, making this a worthwhile destination even when you are keeping the rest of the day fairly relaxed.

For the wider area's story, Redbridge Museum and Heritage Centre are on the second floor of Redbridge Central Library. This is a separate town-centre stop, so allow for the journey between the library and the mansion rather than expecting everything in the park.

Valentines Mansion visitor information Museums and galleries in Redbridge

Look for a current exhibition or activity

SPACE Ilford, at the rear of Redbridge Town Hall, offers another route into local art and creative activities. The council's cultural guide links to the gallery's exhibitions and workshops, which can help you choose a particular event rather than simply arriving on spec.

A café stop or a browse along Cranbrook Road can round out a shorter visit. For a regular activity closer to home, look at community venues and sports organisations in our listings and contact the organiser about the actual session, cost and suitability.

Explore local cultural venues Community and leisure contacts Food and drink

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