There has been a green area on this site for centuries. Until 1854 the area was known as Kennington Common, but after a ‘monster rally’ by the Chartists in 1848 the area was quickly sealed off and turned into a park by the royal family. Since that time, the park has been a well-maintained oasis of calm in one of the busiest areas of south London. The park is used for sports and leisure of all varieties and in the summer months hosts some large organised events.