The park and wider estate

One of Robert Adam's original vistas of the House across Middle Lake

A rare survival in Greater London, Osterley Park provides a peaceful retreat with acres of parkland to enjoy. Open all year there are many walks to take, stopping to admire the view of the impressive house or wandering around the lakes.

Over time, Osterley’s setting has softened – canals evolving into lakes, avenues to clumps of shrubbery, mills into follies, vistas across the estate opened up once more to provide views of the house from all angles. While the house lies at the heart of the estate it is the garden and park which now provides peace and tranquillity from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

" A gentle landscape, “bewitching, with its swans floating in sunshine beyond the shade of the old cedars” where all might find a corner to make their own. "
- Mr Augustus Hare in a letter to Countess Margaret Child-Villers Jersey, 1922
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Enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the estate on your bike
Enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the estate on your bike
Enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the estate on your bike

Where once the family hosted garden parties, tennis and boating, now one might find tai chi practiced beneath the cedars on the south lawn, or families playing and picnicking in the park. Various walks will guide you thought the parkland past the many lakes with chances to spot to the wildlife and birds that live on the estate.

A glimpse of the House across Garden Lake
A glimpse of the House across Garden Lake
A glimpse of the House across Garden Lake

Dogs are welcome around the park at Osterley, with long grass areas where they can be let off lead and enjoy running around the estate. In short grass areas and on the main paths by the House and Stables Courtyard, we ask dogs remain on leads in these areas.

A kingfisher fishing from its perch
Osterley Park and House   Middlesex

Fishing at Osterley

Fishing from north woods provides a tranquil location to enjoy the wildlife of Middle Lake as you wait for a bite, especially during winter when the waterfowl are looking their best. You may be accompanied by anything from the shimmering green of a mallard’s head to the electric blue streak of a passing kingfisher. To fish at Osterley park, you must be licensed by the National Trust. This enables us to monitor the lake and ensure it is not over fished. If you are interested in fishing on Middle Lake, please email osterley@nationaltrust.org.uk to see if licenses are currently being issued.