Kali is approaching twelve years old, but still has a lot of energy and walks many miles each day around Abingdon and frequently visits the Albert Park in Abingdon. It is a favourite walk for many dog walkers who walk round the path or gather on the grass to let the dogs play together.
A talk is to be given about the history of Albert Park at lunchtime by Jackie Smith which will cover a great deal more than dogs.
The park is similar to the tree lined walks in the University Park in Oxford.
The houses themselves would fit in very nicely into Norham Gardens, alongside the University Park. But whereas the large Victorian houses either side of Norham Gardens have been spoilt by over-development, and in some cases rebuilt, those round the Albert Park look much as they did when built from the 1860s.
Jackie could well mention that the house above was built with a tower so that it was taller than all of the neighbours.
If you cannot make the talk, and are interested to find out more, then visit The Christ Hospital of Abingdon site where Jackie wrote about the park in 2010.
Lovely houses – I love walking around the Albert Park area – always so tranquil and unspoilt.
The late Sir John Betjeman once described Albert Park as “England’s finest example of a Victorian suburb”.
Some years back I was told a story/tale about Albert’s statue. Apparently there is a tennis ball stuck up Albert’s tunic at the front. I don’t believe it but I still occasionally cast a glance upwards when passing. Perhaps someone’s having a good yarn and that’s the point. ?