Nature & WildlifeFREE TO VISIT
The Tarn
Eltham
Photo: Marathon / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
A peaceful, Green Flag-winning landscaped garden around a lake off Court Road in Eltham, with wildfowl, a bird sanctuary, 1930s features and an 18th-century ice well that once served Eltham Palace.
Birdwatchingquiet walksphotographyspring daffodils
About The Tarn
The Tarn is a little gem tucked off Court Road in Eltham: a landscaped garden wrapped around a tranquil lake, with ducks and other wildfowl, a bird sanctuary and woodland paths. In spring the banks are lined with daffodils, and the footbridge across the water is a favourite spot to pause.
Many of its original 1930s features survive, and there's an 18th-century ice well, once used to store ice for the kitchens at Eltham Palace. There's a picnic area, it holds a Green Flag Award, and the Green Chain Walk passes through. Fairy Hill Park is a short walk away on the other side of the railway.
It's a quiet place for nature, so there are no dogs and no cycling, and children need watching near the deep water.
Worth knowing
Why visit?
For a quiet lakeside walk, birdlife and a historic ice well linked to Eltham Palace.
History & character
The 18th-century ice well stored ice for the kitchen staff at Eltham Palace. Many of the garden's features date from the 1930s.
Gallery
Images are shown with source/photographer credit where supplied.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my dog to The Tarn?
No, dogs and cycling are not allowed.
Is The Tarn linked to Eltham Palace?
Yes, its 18th-century ice well stored ice for the palace kitchens.