*News* The Grotto in Carshalton Park is one of the oldest in the country, but occasionally suffers from vandalism. The Friends of Carshalton Park applied for funding to have graffiti removed, and this was completed in April 2025. They also removed a build up of ivy. The result is good to see.
This project was funded by the Sutton Council Neighbourhood Fund. This funding can range from community facility improvements and new play equipment to recycling bins and other initiatives that enhance the local environment and services.
Carshalton Park has several notable sweet chestnut trees with distinctive pyramid flower clusters. There is an event in Bushy Park this weekend (11 May) that celebrates this humble specimen.
Find out more about Chestnut Sunday on the Secret Carshalton What’s On page. The event dates back to the 1800s.
Associated stories
A big iron ring! The little-known history of Carshalton’s Mill Lane
A refurbished Oaks Park Bakehouse and new visitor centre – winners of the Neighbourhood Fund
The Grotto In Carshalton Park Was Once Completely Covered in Flint
Details on the 2025 Neighbourhood Fund: https://www.sutton.gov.uk/w/neighbourhoodfund