Kenley – Kenley Common, History and Walks

Kenley combines an extensive public open space with traces of aviation history and a wide range of ways to explore the area on foot. The main starting point is Kenley Common: the 56-hectare site offers nature, historic features and several possible walking routes. This makes Kenley a London destination where landscape and remembrance stand closely alongside one another.

Kenley Common and its landscape

At Kenley Common, chalk grassland, neutral and acidic grassland, old hedgerows, ancient woodland, coppice and scrubland alternate with one another. These different habitats shape the character of the open space and also make it interesting for nature observation. Since 1990, 30 different butterfly species have been recorded here. The combination of open chalk slopes, hedgerows and woodland areas gives the paths a range of different landscapes.

The steep chalk grassland slopes are particularly characteristic. They provide suitable conditions for bee orchids (Ophrys apifera) and other orchid species. The colourful blooms can be seen around June. Anyone visiting Kenley Common at this time will therefore find a clearly defined botanical feature alongside the paths and open areas.

Traces of aviation and remembrance

The history of the area is especially evident in the surviving structures of Kenley Aerodrome. These include two intersecting concrete runways. The two surviving runways are therefore tangible relics of the historic airfield site. Kenley Common also contains eight surviving air-raid shelters, which are protected by Historic England as Scheduled Monuments. Their protected status distinguishes them from mere remains and makes them an essential historical part of the site.

Another place of remembrance is the Kenley Tribute. It was built and inaugurated during the Millennium year and is the focal point for wreath-laying ceremonies on Remembrance Day and other commemorative events. This historical picture is complemented by the Church of All Saints in Kenley, built by J Fowler in 1870–1872.

Walking, cycling and getting there

Kenley Common is open all year round and offers several possible walking routes. Cycling is also possible on many bridleways and permitted paths. For those arriving on foot, Kenley railway station is a clear reference point: from there, Kenley Common can be reached in about 15 minutes. Another option is via Buxton Lane/Ninehams Road; from there, it is about a 10-minute walk to the southern entrance of Kenley Common.

When travelling by car, please note that there is no public car park at Kenley Common. Marked roadside parking spaces are available on Hayes Lane. Those using the London Loop will encounter Kenley Common in Section 5 of this route.

Other London destinations

For further research, you can also open New Malden, Richmond, Erith, Stratford, Mitcham, Ilford, Islington and Hounslow.