#082

For such a small area, Fullwell Cross is spoilt for architectural and cultural history. Its 1960s-built library by renowned architect Frederick Gibberd is one of his most celebrated works. The New Fairlop Oak pub and the oak tree which stands in front of it at Fullwell Cross roundabout mark the famous oak tree which stood nearby. It was one of the largest oak trees in Britain and stood for several hundred years until 1820, by which time it was heavily decaying. The great oak was well known enough for Queen Anne to pay a visit and it was the location of Daniel Day's Fairlop Fair from the early 1700s.
Sources:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barking...
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairlop
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AEC_Reg...
hidden-london.com/gazetteer/f...

[@peterb514]

There was a small wood here before the library and swimming pool. Mum often parked the car in Craven Gardens then we nipped through the trees to the LEB to pay the electric bill! I went to Manford Way Junior School - my class went to the swimming pool once a week on a Wednesday afternoon.

[@IlfordRetro]

I'd love to see a photo of that corner before the development, and it's no surprise you remember what it looked like having a route through it to the LEB! I suppose the building of the pool gave access to swimming lessons for local schools like nothing before.

[@peterb514]

@@IlfordRetro
I’ve got a photo of trolleybuses parked adjacent to where the wood once stood in one of my bus books… I’ll try and find it for you!

[@IlfordRetro]

@@peterb514 Really?! That would be wonderful to see what it was like. By all means you can email me on ilfordretro at gmail .com

[@safiae6875]

Another great video! Very interesting to see the 62 bus route used to operate around there😊

[@IlfordRetro]

Yes it's a shame it doesn't come close to Barkingside anymore, it used to have such an all-encompassing route back then. Hard to believe they thought it wasn't worth it in the end.....

[@arifalam9628]

Such a distinctive sight, I grew up around there. Now in Sydney but have fond memories. Those buses were also so different, being able to get on and off without doors and on the move.... would not pass safety regulations now :)

[@IlfordRetro]

Good to hear you have fond memories of years gone by and you're right - the buses were indeed great for easy (if unsafe) access!

[@rajnirvan3336]

Retro buses were awesome

[@michellebooth327]

Retro everything is awesome tbh. Modern day just sucks.

[@YasinBusEnthuiast2024]

#letsbring62tobarkingside
I wished 62 return to Barkingside they need more routes from Chadwell Heath lane or barking strange to be honest but it might be useless TFL don’t care bus enthusiasts like me or everyone yeah 😮

[@IlfordRetro]

I agree it would be well used if it was extended beyond its current route. You're right that they are unlikely to grant our wish!