Alexandra Lake, Wanstead Flats
Alexandra Lake - viewed from a similar position in September 2004
'Wanstead Flats, Manor Park' - an Edwardian monochrome postcard (courtesy of P. Saunders)
Alexandra Lake was a popular spot for recreation from shortly after it opened in the early 1900s. Still popular, the 'pebble beach' which for long sloped down from near Aldersbrook Road was taken away, and the pond re-edged. This led to a growth of willow and silver birch at the edge, which created just a muddy inaccessible border. The photo taken in 2004 does not yet show that growth.
Ceramic drain installed early in 20th Century now encased in the roots of a tree. March 2002
Ceramic drain installed early in 20th Century and now encased in the roots of a tree. March 2002
Shortly after the lCeramic drain at NW corner of lake, encased in concrete but not connected to a surface-water drain. April 2002ake was originally created it was found that it often lacked sufficient water. To help overcome that problem.
An attempt to drain flooding of the playing fields into Alexandra Lake
Drainage ditch near Alexandra Lake
ab