Barfield Allotments Nature Park

Barfield Allotments Nature Park lies in Whetstone, a quiet part of the London Borough of Barnet. It covers a small area recognised for its wildlife value. Formerly allotments, the land was nearly turned into a play area until slow worms and common lizards were spotted. Local people opposed the change once they saw the site’s importance for nature. A playground now occupies the north-east corner, while the rest has become a wildlife haven. The park still holds a few plum and apple trees from its allotment days. Grassland has given way to scrub, and parts have been cleared to form a rich mix of plants. A native hedgerow runs along the edge, and a pond with marshy ground was dug to help amphibians. A natural spring feeds the wet areas, making the habitat more varied. Visitors enter near the playground off Barfield Avenue, though public access is limited. School groups may visit by arrangement, but the main wildlife area remains closed to the public. The park shows how small urban spaces can support rare species when managed with care.