The Ilford Hospital Chapel will be open for London Open House Festival in 2023 on Saturday 16th September 10am to 4pm on Sunday 17th September 1pm to 4.30pm. Guided tours. Do pop in to see us
I lived in Ilford for a few years and passed the Chapel every day but I've never seen inside it. I had read that rhinoceros and elephant or mammoth bones had been uncovered along Ilford Lane during construction work. I imagine Ilford has changed a lot since I lived there.
When I think of all the roads I walked regularly especially Romford rd. Why was I never taught or told about ANY of this local history in school. William the Conqueror- Barking Abbey these are the stories that kids can relate too.....local history is so undervalued. Thanks John
Great memories of travelling down Romford road to ilford in the late 70's as a kid visiting relatives, in those days when ever you went to Ilford you were your best clothes alas them days are long gone. Thanks John
thanks for sharing that Raj - when I moved to Leytonstone 15 years ago Ilford was still where some people went to do their Christmas shopping. I used to look forward to going over there on days off. I think Stratford Westfield had a really negative impact on Ilford sadly
Brilliant John, really enjoyed this one.. I am a Riverkeeper on the South side of the Thames from you and its horrible to see so much rubbish in the Adlers brook.. London has so many secret spots that people pass and don't give any thought to. Looking for ward to your next walk... ATB Chris.
I’m a mid 90’s generation kid that was raised in Ilford-Forest Gate and I never knew there was so much history here. It always seemed for us hopeless and desolate but seeing this video helped me see the strong history beneath the urban decay. It also gives us a sense of identity and some hope so thank you for this.
Your enthusiasm for these walks,especially in winter never ceases to amaze me,I have taken to a motorised treadmill with the patio doors open and pretending I am walking along Canvey seafront.Well done .
Just saw the City of London Cemetery on your map. Whilst I now live in the North i came from Leytonstone and my Mum, Dad, Grandma and Grandad are buried there!
I have an uncle and aunt (from Clapton) and wife has a long-lost cousin who started in Sheffield then via India and Japan to retirement in Woodford area
@@JohnRogersWalks It's been repeated a few times,. The original event took nine days (though not consecutive ones) and he published an account in a book called "The Nine Dayes Wonder". He did it after falling out with Shakespeare, some of whose comic characters had been written specifically for him.
@@JohnRogersWalks I assume for the repeats the route of the roman road wasn't used. Large parts of it are now unfortunately dual carriageway with no pavements. It's quite hard to dance or even walk between most towns these days.
My Dad , when he was working in Walthamstow , dug up an object that he thought was an animal bone of some sort which turned out to be part of a mammoths tusk . He gave it to the vestry museum. Further proof that east London was prehistoric. Long live the rivers of London . 😊👍
Well of course it was prehistoric! It didn't just pop into existence in 1843 or something! What would become East London was part of Pangea nearly 300 million years ago....
absolutely fascinating. Much i Knew, but much I didn't. One thing I really clearly remember is waiting for the bus home with my mother in the mid 1950's and my mum would invariably pop into that little chapel on Ilford Hill, and chat to the nuns who lived there. It was a very special memory returned to me, so thank you so much for that. I also recall that a part of this was sold off and demolished more recently to allow for the one way system and more building. Beautiful places sacrificed to traffic and pollution. It is insanity. Thanks for your lovely walk.
When I first visited Wanstead Flats as a child, I thought the name referred to all the tower blocks I could see. I remember wondering what they called the big grassy space in the middle.
The rivers are remarkable aren't they and that is what makes all the litter so heartbreaking - taken part in some clean ups myself, not a pleasant business - I recommend people wear some heavy duty gloves as there can be syringes lying in amongst some of the rubbish. I love 'seeing' history and so particularly enjoyed this walk from the point where you mention the Conqueror and the jester. I actually got a ghostly shiver just as the Ilford Hospital Chapel came into view. I have read about the washing of the feet but did not know anything about this particular building. Twelfth century wow, you built up to that very well without spoiling it, the best thing I have seen so far in 2021, I love old buildings, thank you John.
A nostalgic walk through my home town , I have luved in Australia for 30 years it's changed a bit took a while to get my bearings . Look forward to your next walk 👍👍👍👍
Looking forward to Wanstead Park, amazing how grand Wanstead House would have been. Come on Wanstead Golf Club and let John in. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if you pop in.
I always love your walks. Feels like an old friend is showing me secrets I didn't know existed. Another wonderful video that has transported me to somewhere I'm not able to visit right now. Thankyou.
John, loved this video. You've been an inspiration since I first saw your videos before Xmas. On Boxing day, my brother and I went on a long walk through Wanstead park and following the Roding into Ilford...half way through I thought the Roding had narrowed considerably which was unusual...little did I know that I had stumbled onto the path you found of the Aldersbrook! What an amazing little find! and so glad you went to the Hospital chapel...must be many thousands of times I've walked past or driven past without even thinking what it might be. On our walk on Boxing day, my brother and I walked past and were left wondering about it's history but couldn't go in so really glad you've given us a great background to it. Who would've thought, amidst all the highrise modern buildings in Ilford, we would still be able to find a medieval relic! Money is a bit tight at the moment but I really hope to become a Patreon! Really looking forward to your Wanstead park walk - we were particularly intrigued by the Grotto!
rivers and water courses always seem to have such a soothing quality about them, they seem to almost instantly soothe the soul. such a magical experience. river walks are my favourite. Great Stuff!
In the 1950's as kids we used to walk down the long path on the right hand side of the cemetery to the Aldersbrook to catch sticklebacks, wonderful times indeed. As always a great and informative video. AAA+++
I live in Yorkshire now, but Wanstead Flats, Ilford, Barking, East Ham and Dagenham is my old stomping ground, it was lovely to see some familiar places along your walk thank you for sharing, it was delightful!
My friend and I picked up the Aldersbrook river and followed it to Ilford. We started in Snaresbrook with the Eagle pond and Hallow pond and walked our way through to Wanstead flats and the park. We then took the river roading walk and picked up the Aldersbrook. We then made our way to Ilford and the Wetherspoons pub for a few ales. Thanks for the video and the inspiration.
I've been watching your videos for a few months now and really look forward to them. I also bought your book This Other London, which I found entertaining and informative. Although I live in Lincolnshire these days, I was born and grew up in Forest Gate, close to Wanstead Flats, so for me your videos are like a walk down memory lane. Please keep making them and I'll keep watching.
Wonderful memories in this one. One of my childhood playgrounds was along the bridle path next to the cemetery to Wanstead Park. The area under the railway was known by as as the Butts. There was only a small fence then and we could climb onto the dam and follow the brook around to Ilford Bridge. Keep 'em coming.
Thank you for another wonderful journey John. As is sometimes the case your film triggered memories. I grew up in Ashville Road Leytonstone and I have wonderful summer memories of my mates and I, (early 60's), making our way to Wanstead flats via Cathall Road and Harrow Green. We'd spend long sunny afternoons roaming hither and thither. I can still recall the sense of liberation as we came to the flats and the sense of limitless freedom as they opened up before us. I may be wrong but I'm sure that what became Jubilee ponds was then drained and rather unsightly. I remember walking across to the islands, then just large mounds girded by concrete slabs lined with what looked like asphalt. But my memory may be at fault. Thanks again for another great film.
You see beauty, wonderment, admiration for everything you chance upon. Even if it's in Ilford, which must be one the most depressing areas of London. Good for you - and for us too!
I was born and raised in Wanstead, I live in Texas now and have been for the last 25 years and I miss Wanstead so much. Great job John keep it up, your videos are fantastic...
Good to see my hometown of Ilford again. I haven't lived there for 24 years. Looks like there have been many changes. Love the river walks too. Looking forward to your walk to the River Roding source at Molehill Green...WHENEVER THAT MAY BE!
Thanks for this. Until I was 18 I lived on Exeter Gardens which joins Wanstead Park Road opposite the entrance to the park. I used to go to Highlands junior school which you stood in front of on your cranbrook video. I remember having school sports afternoons on the greens where the north circular now is, that's my memory of wanstead park and it was lovely and peaceful there, you used you walk straight down and not take the dog leg that you now do over the roadnbridge. I can't even say I felt nostalgic as I never explored where you went in this video and feel a bit sad about that but its magical that you did this walk. Ive got plenty of family buried in the city of London cemetery and actually had no idea it was so close. The area where you walked from felt like a million miles away then. Amazing stuff, thoroughly enjoyed your journey!
Can't tell you how much me and my family enjoy your videos John. We always throw on a video together after supper have made a real routine of it. Thank you for the quality of your work !
History is just beneath our feet, it certainly is thanks for uncovering some glimpses into the mystery, The Way of Wyrd is one of my favourite books, thank you John, stay safe,stay well, see you soon ♥🌈⭐☯️
Thank you John for a wonderful video. I must get my sister to watch it as she lives just around the corner from the hospital chapel on Ilford hill. Bob.
Another nice one John. I lived in Ilford for ten years from the mid 70`s to the mid 80`s. When we first moved there long before the redevelopment`s the Ilford Film`s factory dominated Ilford Hill opposite what was once Ilford Police Station. In Cranbrook Rd there is a pub in a building that was once Comet electrical,and Timberland DIY. The pub is called The Great Spoon of Ilford,and is dedicated to Will Spoon who was supposed to have done the dancing thing.Perhaps he was an imitator?
The history of the Great Spoon pub revolves around Will Kemp who did his dancing thing. It is almost certain that he would have stopped in Ilford for a drink or two (Ilford was much safer back then) However the term "Spoon" is actually a measurement of beer equal to 2 pint. Maybe "Will" and "Spoon" became entwined over time to become confused as a single person
@@bakerloobadboy Fair enough. I had moved from Ilford to Beckton before that pub was opened. It was possible to walk from Wanstead Park Rd to The Flat`s before they built the A406 Barking Relief Rd. Keep `em coming.
@@anthonyhatfull5484 I remember those days when High Street North was the North Circular Road (which continued up into Wanstead Flats past Manor Park Station etc) Nowadays you have to walk until you find one of the new footbridges they built in order to cross the "New North Circular"
@@bakerloobadboy So you must remember The Denmark arms opposite the Town Hall. It bore the legend" Luncheon Rooms Upstairs" a reminder of a more genteel age. I don`t know if it`s still open,as cI moved to Torbay many moon`s ago.
@@bakerloobadboy You mentioned William The Conqueror.At the top of High St. North and Barking Road there is/was? The William The Conqueror pub that we used to frequent when I worked at the old MFI store opposite,before it moved to Marsh Gate Lane Stratford. I wonder if William used to pop in there for a few pints of Stella? :)
Beautifully captured, John. Pretty much anywhere in Britain there is always the potential that under each footfall there are millennia of human history, particularly along our rivers where many thousands of people have walked. I can almost feel their vibrations coming through the soles of my boots when I stand at a river confluence. Cheers 👍🏽
What an incredible exploration! Mister Rogers, thank you so much for your delicate and elegant presentation and compliments for your lively eruduction. This is how places really bring history to life! (from Italy - Milano).
As always another great video and this one more so, as you actually filmed on the pavement right outside my house. The gate / barrier across the Aldersbrook where it goes underneath the railway (was always known as The Butts for some reason) was put there by the railway to replace an older smaller one. This is because the modern day "Underground construction and tunnelling academy" is built on the site of Aldersbrook House which was a British Rail Staff Hostel (the building was still there as late as 1995) and the fence / barrier was put there to keep out unwanted visitors. Ilford railway depot would be a stop over / terminus point for rail crews working into London Liverpool Street or Broad street. Staff would stay overnight at the hostel before working their route home the next day. Surprising that the ladies who you met that were litter picking said they hadn't heard of the Aldersbrook as it is well represented in the area. To get from Wanstead Flats into Empress Avenue (where the UK government tested Citizens Band radio in the 70's) you had to cross Aldersbrook Road. The tunnel under the railway brought you out into Aldersbrook Lane. You walked along Daines Close (Possibly a vague link to the Danes stranded up towards Hertford when the River Lea was Diverted to trap them) to look over the wall for the Aldersbrook. I took some pictures from Ilford Bridge where you filmed the Aldersbrook joining the Roding a couple of days before you were there and the water was much higher. Ordinarily you can see the junction of the Roding and the Aldersbrook because the water from Aldersbrook is much dirtier and easier to spot in the very tidal river Roding The chapel at the top of Ilford Hill has probably only survived this far because it is a place of worship, otherwise I have no doubt that some developer would have levelled it and built on top of the remains. As always, your videos are epic. Can't wait for the next one
@@JohnRogersWalks You're welcome. I got interested in the local history of my area when I visited the Passmore Edwards museum in Stratford whilst still at school. I was always amazed by (for example) an old out of place building tucked in amongst all the new ones and was fascinated to learn its history . So many of your video's relate to areas I know, have lived in or worked in. You bring those areas to life with your video's.
Talking of rivers, have you seen the River Ching recently going through Hatch Forest? At this rate, we will be able to go white water rafting down it. It is truly an awesome sight!
There's a friends of Wanstead park as you must know. They organised a visit to the site of the big house some years ago. Don't forget how Astronomy was big around Wanstead too. Great video. So London sick am I. Really miss Leytonstone et al.
I love your blue beanie and matching blue rain jacket. I found them as soothing to view as the walk was to wander with you. I grew up in seven kings and Ilford was the shopping centre. I never knew there was such a historic building there.
Another great walk John, thank you for taking us with you. I lived for many years in Leytonstone, not far from the start of the walk, and from 2000 to 2007 worked in the car dealership (it is now Nissan, but I was there when it was Renault). I have walked the Ilford part many times, and sat on the benches in the chapel garden. Thinking about the high water level, reminded me of a few days while I was at the garage, when we had the Roding and Aldersbrook, both ‘burst their banks’ and the footpath and Romford Road were closed for several hours. Enjoyed this greatly. See your next one....whatever it may be!
Lived in seven kings for a few years and passed that chapel unknowingly many times. Wished I knew it was there at the time, would of loved to see it in person. Thanks for your engrossing videos.
We are getting to know about London John from your wonderful walking episodes. We went on your two day break to Hampton Court yesterday and boy did it bring back memories!! 34 years ago we were living in eastern Canada and we went on a vacation back to the UK with our two very young daughters. One of our stops was the maze and grounds at Hampton court and your walk took us right back there. We look forward to going back on your previous walks to learn more about our homeland. Thanks John!! David, Alberta Canada🇨🇦
Fantastic John, you are a walking superstar. The flats were where we played our home games (football) for Forest Gate High School, and Cross Country Running in 1960s. School is opposite F. Gate Station. Also went there for the fair which set up beside the big lake you showed. Thank you.
thanks Jamie - wish I'd put in some footage of the fair that I've filmed in previous years. I also took my youngest son to the Circus there in the past
that old pubat 29 59 think it used to have a sign on it that said the bit on the end was for coah and horses i often wonder how old it is shut down now very sadly great one john thank you steve
Wonderful and so interesting ,ive read so many books about London and yet all this is new to me, thanks John i look forward to watching all your previous vids .
I'm born and bread ilford boy I'm 52 now I've found some old history myself the places I found in ilford amazing I do love the history in general love your videos 👌🏻💯
Hey John, just found your channel about 3 weeks ago and its already one of my favourites. Been binging on your videos and can't wait for the lockdown to be over, so I can get out there and do some of these amazing walks. Keep up the great work John and stay safe
Don’t loose the passion John, it’s infectious. Talking of which, sharing the story of the lepers being cared for by the abbess and sisters at the beautiful chapel on Iford Hill was a wonderful ending. A blessed act of compassion that is alone worth dwelling on. Walk on my friend.
Beguiling, illuminating, enchanting....The way you dig out the history beneath the urban landscape it beguiles and enchants me! From your fan in BC Canada, who was born in Ilford. And the chapel......what a delight, who knew it was there?
Growing up in Manor Park I discovered the Aldersbrook from maps, having wondered where the road got it's name from. I was surprised to find it was already known to us kids as 'the stream', you tried not to fall in the stream while climbing over the concrete wall under the railway bridge (one of our hangouts). It doesn't surprise me that the locals don't know of it's existence, most think Wanstead Flats is called Wanstead Park. You surprised me with Mill Rd, I had forgotten the horror of cycling through there as it was a great alternative to the muddy lane alongside the brook.
I did the same! I remember climbing the concrete wall as a child and then crossing Aldersbrook, there was a gas pipe that used to go across it which we used to dare one another to attempt otherwise use the bricks/stones that were on the water. I remember going under the railway bridge and into Ilford golf course! Nostalgic
Hi John, The double banking of the Roding was done in the mid-70's from memory with the arrival of the M11. The river was also altered then to allow construction. You can see a "null" bridge as you enter Woodford Bridge just by the Ashton Playing Fields entrance. The river used to flow through there and behind Uplands Road - causing frequent flooding of properties. Other areas were purposely left open as flood plains. The football pitches outside Broadmead Flats and Ray Lodge Park being good examples. The banking goes all the way up to Buckhurst Hill railway bridge before the river returns to nature proper. The idea was to allow the river to remain somewhat natural without turning it into a concrete channel. That largely worked I think although the banks can loom over you a bit in some of the more culverted sections. Stay well :-)
thanks for that Mouxbar - this was only recently pointed out to me in the summer on the video where I walk along the nature reserve between Wanstead and Charlie Brown's roundabout. Hadn't realised that before on my Roding walks
Thanks for another fantastic, educational and interesting walk John - I love these they are so calming and absorbing...really looking forward to the next one .... wherever that may be 😁
Great video John! There’s 2 videos there, waiting to be made, travels along Romford Road and Barking Abbey! Interesting reading some comments about travelling to Ilford as a special occasion, I grew up in Plaistow and would visit Ilford shops with my mum as a day out! You had Littlewoods, M&S, Harrison Gibson shops. 👏🏻👍
Love the Videos, the History....a murky English Winter Landscape seems so Elegant watching from within my Siamese Comfort Zone, I used to paint Landscapes many years ago, your videos inspire me to start again, there are a lot of colours in an English Winter Scene that a lot of Folk would not look for or see..I would love to exploit that colour and put it on Canvas again, anyway you are an inspiration.
Oh dear. Ilford used to be in Essex! My Nan used to live in York Mews off of York Road. The area around Aldersbrook river where it joins the Roding and where the Underground Tunnel Training Centre is now was the Aldersbrook Railway Hostel and Training Centre. This was an accommodation facility for rail staff on overnight stayovers when the railways were a national concern rather than the now limited local operations. It closed in the late 80s, but became a training facility for signalling operations and maintenance and continues today in its present guise. There was a local entrepreneur who wanted to build a marina at the confluence of the Aldersbrook to the Roding, and a couple of boats appeared but it came to nothing and the boats were sunk or set fire to. There was a local sea scouts training type establishment in the same area. Can remember Ilford Films and the Paper Makers Arms round the back streets. The one in the vid opposite Mill Road was the Rose & Crown. Sankeys' Pyruma Works was half way up Ilford Hill, and Mill Road was home to Holding & Barnes breakers yard. There was a South Essex Water Works steam pumping station and had visiting flocks of sheep to keep the grass short! The engine from the pumping station ended up at the Museum of Power at Langford near Maldon. If you visit Barking, find the Rushing Waters, from memory there was the remnants of a lock that kept the water level navigable upto Ilford. The Conservative Club was the old Police Station. Sorry no trolleybuses, but thats another story!👍
I live in Ilford, just in the flats on Ilford Hill. So nice to know u have walked until our flats, i cud see them in the video. The Hospital Chapel is very beautiful inside with the stained glass windows n the pews n the statues inside. They used to have Open days previously, n we visited it what with staying just opposite to it. It is a hidden gem. Nondescript, yet splendid.
A wonderfully evocative video, John. I was particularly fascinated and astonished by the hidden gem that is the Hospital Chapel in Ilford. It truly is incredible how one place can relate and connect to another without ever seeming to be linked on the face of it, geographically or historically: where I live, in Dunfermline, there is a site called Malcolm Canmore's Tower, which is reputed to have been constructed in the 10th or 11th century. All that remains today are a few fragments of the foundation. But I mention it because Queen Maud ( who became Henry I 's wife ) was born in the tower in 1068. And David I of Scotland, Canmore's son, would have known the Tower intimately. I had no idea either of them had an association with the Ilford Hospital Chapel.
Loved this video and so many of your others too. I learn so much from them and can’t wait to visit London again, so I can see it with new eyes. Thank you!
Mention of William Kemp immediately brought to mind the lyric: "Since Robin Hood, Maid Marian, And Little John are gone, The hobby horse was quite forgot, When Kemp did dance alone He did labour After the tabor. For to dance, Then into France. He took pains to skip it In hope of gains. He did trip it On the toe, Diddle diddle diddle doe."
Enjoy your videos. I live in Manor Park and have recently introduced the other half to your channel too. We've been watching your videos on the big telly. Coincidentally, we actually walked some of this the route to Valentines park a couple of weeks ago.
The Ilford Hospital Chapel will be open for London Open House Festival in 2023 on Saturday 16th September 10am to 4pm on Sunday 17th September 1pm to 4.30pm. Guided tours. Do pop in to see us
I lived in Ilford for a few years and passed the Chapel every day but I've never seen inside it.
I had read that rhinoceros and elephant or mammoth bones had been uncovered along Ilford Lane during construction work.
I imagine Ilford has changed a lot since I lived there.
When I think of all the roads I walked regularly especially Romford rd. Why was I never taught or told about ANY of this local history in school. William the Conqueror- Barking Abbey these are the stories that kids can relate too.....local history is so undervalued. Thanks John
Great memories of travelling down Romford road to ilford in the late 70's as a kid visiting relatives, in those days when ever you went to Ilford you were your best clothes alas them days are long gone. Thanks John
thanks for sharing that Raj - when I moved to Leytonstone 15 years ago Ilford was still where some people went to do their Christmas shopping. I used to look forward to going over there on days off. I think Stratford Westfield had a really negative impact on Ilford sadly
Brilliant John, really enjoyed this one.. I am a Riverkeeper on the South side of the Thames from you and its horrible to see so much rubbish in the Adlers brook.. London has so many secret spots that people pass and don't give any thought to. Looking for ward to your next walk... ATB Chris.
cheers Chris and greatly appreciate the work of the Riverkeepers
This channel is one of the great gems of TH-cam. I am pleased to see the number of subscribers has jumped to over 20,000. Even more to come!👏
thanks very much - very kind of you
This channel is fcuked!!! www.ilfordrecorder.co.uk/news/call-for-action-after-alders-brook-sewage-spill-7868490
@@RIDDONS That is terrible
I’m a mid 90’s generation kid that was raised in Ilford-Forest Gate and I never knew there was so much history here. It always seemed for us hopeless and desolate but seeing this video helped me see the strong history beneath the urban decay. It also gives us a sense of identity and some hope so thank you for this.
Your enthusiasm for these walks,especially in winter never ceases to amaze me,I have taken to a motorised treadmill with the patio doors open and pretending I am walking along Canvey seafront.Well done .
Just saw the City of London Cemetery on your map. Whilst I now live in the North i came from Leytonstone and my Mum, Dad, Grandma and Grandad are buried there!
I have an uncle and aunt (from Clapton) and wife has a long-lost cousin who started in Sheffield then via India and Japan to retirement in Woodford area
John, you are the middle-aged Londoners' Joe Wicks. You've made lockdown far more bearable Keep it up!
As a fellow Londoner I really enjoy all the history that your walks include. Love the relaxed style. An oasis of tranquility in this mad world.
thanks Anthony
Will Kemp danced all the way from London to Norwich? Wow, I could never do that...
I'd have given up at Bury St Edmunds.
apparently somebody repeated the feat a few years ago
@@JohnRogersWalks It's been repeated a few times,.
The original event took nine days (though not consecutive ones) and he published an account in a book called "The Nine Dayes Wonder".
He did it after falling out with Shakespeare, some of whose comic characters had been written specifically for him.
@@JohnRogersWalks I assume for the repeats the route of the roman road wasn't used. Large parts of it are now unfortunately dual carriageway with no pavements. It's quite hard to dance or even walk between most towns these days.
You'd be forgiven though. Many people have simply given up at Bury St Edmunds...
Such a joy to hear your enthusiasm when you take your walks & such fun when you find new discoveries on your way.
My Dad , when he was working in Walthamstow , dug up an object that he thought was an animal bone of some sort which turned out to be part of a mammoths tusk . He gave it to the vestry museum. Further proof that east London was prehistoric. Long live the rivers of London . 😊👍
Well of course it was prehistoric! It didn't just pop into existence in 1843 or something! What would become East London was part of Pangea nearly 300 million years ago....
absolutely fascinating. Much i Knew, but much I didn't. One thing I really clearly remember is waiting for the bus home with my mother in the mid 1950's and my mum would invariably pop into that little chapel on Ilford Hill, and chat to the nuns who lived there. It was a very special memory returned to me, so thank you so much for that. I also recall that a part of this was sold off and demolished more recently to allow for the one way system and more building. Beautiful places sacrificed to traffic and pollution. It is insanity. Thanks for your lovely walk.
When I first visited Wanstead Flats as a child, I thought the name referred to all the tower blocks
I could see. I remember wondering what they called the big grassy space in the middle.
Just enjoyed this on a snowy Sunday in NW England. With subtitles on, I learned a lot about "once dead flats". Thank you John.
Ha, that’s brilliant- I shall start calling it that from now on
The rivers are remarkable aren't they and that is what makes all the litter so heartbreaking - taken part in some clean ups myself, not a pleasant business - I recommend people wear some heavy duty gloves as there can be syringes lying in amongst some of the rubbish.
I love 'seeing' history and so particularly enjoyed this walk from the point where you mention the Conqueror and the jester. I actually got a ghostly shiver just as the Ilford Hospital Chapel came into view. I have read about the washing of the feet but did not know anything about this particular building. Twelfth century wow, you built up to that very well without spoiling it, the best thing I have seen so far in 2021, I love old buildings, thank you John.
A nostalgic walk through my home town , I have luved in Australia for 30 years it's changed a bit took a while to get my bearings . Look forward to your next walk 👍👍👍👍
Looking forward to Wanstead Park, amazing how grand Wanstead House would have been. Come on Wanstead Golf Club and let John in. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if you pop in.
I always love your walks. Feels like an old friend is showing me secrets I didn't know existed. Another wonderful video that has transported me to somewhere I'm not able to visit right now. Thankyou.
thanks Rebekah - hope to get out later to take you on another walk which I'll have online Sunday
John, loved this video. You've been an inspiration since I first saw your videos before Xmas. On Boxing day, my brother and I went on a long walk through Wanstead park and following the Roding into Ilford...half way through I thought the Roding had narrowed considerably which was unusual...little did I know that I had stumbled onto the path you found of the Aldersbrook! What an amazing little find! and so glad you went to the Hospital chapel...must be many thousands of times I've walked past or driven past without even thinking what it might be. On our walk on Boxing day, my brother and I walked past and were left wondering about it's history but couldn't go in so really glad you've given us a great background to it. Who would've thought, amidst all the highrise modern buildings in Ilford, we would still be able to find a medieval relic! Money is a bit tight at the moment but I really hope to become a Patreon! Really looking forward to your Wanstead park walk - we were particularly intrigued by the Grotto!
rivers and water courses always seem to have such a soothing quality about them, they seem to almost instantly soothe the soul. such a magical experience. river walks are my favourite. Great Stuff!
Thank you John walking Vicariously with you with a glass of wine and a pizza , still shielding . Thank you for giving me a glimpse to the outside xxx
My pleasure Morrigan - brighter days ahead and sounds like you're nicely sorted with the wine and pizza
@@JohnRogersWalks indeed I feel brighter days ahead xxx
In the 1950's as kids we used to walk down the long path on the right hand side of the cemetery to the Aldersbrook to catch sticklebacks, wonderful times indeed. As always a great and informative video. AAA+++
I live in Yorkshire now, but Wanstead Flats, Ilford, Barking, East Ham and Dagenham is my old stomping ground, it was lovely to see some familiar places along your walk thank you for sharing, it was delightful!
That long muddy path, we used to call it the bridal path as kids, and collected our tadpoles in the brook, good old days, nice one johnny boy👍👍👍
My friend and I picked up the Aldersbrook river and followed it to Ilford. We started in Snaresbrook with the Eagle pond and Hallow pond and walked our way through to Wanstead flats and the park. We then took the river roading walk and picked up the Aldersbrook. We then made our way to Ilford and the Wetherspoons pub for a few ales. Thanks for the video and the inspiration.
I've been watching your videos for a few months now and really look forward to them. I also bought your book This Other London, which I found entertaining and informative. Although I live in Lincolnshire these days, I was born and grew up in Forest Gate, close to Wanstead Flats, so for me your videos are like a walk down memory lane. Please keep making them and I'll keep watching.
thanks very much Brian - I'll certainly keep making the videos - the next two are already planned
Wonderful memories in this one. One of my childhood playgrounds was along the bridle path next to the cemetery to Wanstead Park. The area under the railway was known by as as the Butts. There was only a small fence then and we could climb onto the dam and follow the brook around to Ilford Bridge. Keep 'em coming.
thanks for that Robert. Actually the two ladies I met doing the litter pick mentioned the Butts so it's still in use
The Hospital Chapel is a hidden jewel in London's crown! Very beautiful inside.
I have no previous connection with these places and yet I am fascinated and enchanted thanks John.
Thanks John. I lived in Ilford in the 70s. Great place to be. Room at the top, tiffany's and the best one the lacy lady.
Never knew about the chapel and Ive been past there so many times!! Thanks for taking us along.
Thank you for another wonderful journey John. As is sometimes the case your film triggered memories. I grew up in Ashville Road Leytonstone and I have wonderful summer memories of my mates and I, (early 60's), making our way to Wanstead flats via Cathall Road and Harrow Green. We'd spend long sunny afternoons roaming hither and thither. I can still recall the sense of liberation as we came to the flats and the sense of limitless freedom as they opened up before us. I may be wrong but I'm sure that what became Jubilee ponds was then drained and rather unsightly. I remember walking across to the islands, then just large mounds girded by concrete slabs lined with what looked like asphalt. But my memory may be at fault. Thanks again for another great film.
You see beauty, wonderment, admiration for everything you chance upon. Even if it's in Ilford, which must be one the most depressing areas of London. Good for you - and for us too!
I was born and raised in Wanstead, I live in Texas now and have been for the last 25 years and I miss Wanstead so much. Great job John keep it up, your videos are fantastic...
Good to see my hometown of Ilford again. I haven't lived there for 24 years. Looks like there have been many changes.
Love the river walks too. Looking forward to your walk to the River Roding source at Molehill Green...WHENEVER THAT MAY BE!
"The towers of Ilford through the trees". Oh, the romance of east London.
Hardly "romantic" at all really!
I believe the irony is somewhat understated!
you get better.i could sit here watching your walks all day.great.
Been looking forward to your video. So calming In these troubled times. Loved seeing the Aldersbrook flowing. I felt your excitement! Thank you.
Thanks for this. Until I was 18 I lived on Exeter Gardens which joins Wanstead Park Road opposite the entrance to the park. I used to go to Highlands junior school which you stood in front of on your cranbrook video. I remember having school sports afternoons on the greens where the north circular now is, that's my memory of wanstead park and it was lovely and peaceful there, you used you walk straight down and not take the dog leg that you now do over the roadnbridge. I can't even say I felt nostalgic as I never explored where you went in this video and feel a bit sad about that but its magical that you did this walk. Ive got plenty of family buried in the city of London cemetery and actually had no idea it was so close. The area where you walked from felt like a million miles away then. Amazing stuff, thoroughly enjoyed your journey!
Can't tell you how much me and my family enjoy your videos John. We always throw on a video together after supper have made a real routine of it. Thank you for the quality of your work !
thanks so much Ealrio - really wonderful to hear that
History is just beneath our feet, it certainly is thanks for uncovering some glimpses into the mystery, The Way of Wyrd is one of my favourite books, thank you John, stay safe,stay well, see you soon ♥🌈⭐☯️
Thanks John, another great walk. Spotted at least one alder tree at 22:30.
Thank you John for a wonderful video. I must get my sister to watch it as she lives just around the corner from the hospital chapel on Ilford hill. Bob.
Another nice one John.
I lived in Ilford for ten years from the mid 70`s to the mid 80`s.
When we first moved there long before the redevelopment`s the Ilford Film`s factory dominated Ilford Hill opposite what was once Ilford Police Station.
In Cranbrook Rd there is a pub in a building that was once Comet electrical,and Timberland DIY.
The pub is called The Great Spoon of Ilford,and is dedicated to Will Spoon who was supposed to have done the dancing thing.Perhaps he was an imitator?
The history of the Great Spoon pub revolves around Will Kemp who did his dancing thing. It is almost certain that he would have stopped in Ilford for a drink or two (Ilford was much safer back then) However the term "Spoon" is actually a measurement of beer equal to 2 pint. Maybe "Will" and "Spoon" became entwined over time to become confused as a single person
@@bakerloobadboy Fair enough. I had moved from Ilford to Beckton before that pub was opened.
It was possible to walk from Wanstead Park Rd to The Flat`s before they built the A406 Barking Relief Rd.
Keep `em coming.
@@anthonyhatfull5484 I remember those days when High Street North was the North Circular Road (which continued up into Wanstead Flats past Manor Park Station etc) Nowadays you have to walk until you find one of the new footbridges they built in order to cross the "New North Circular"
@@bakerloobadboy So you must remember The Denmark arms opposite the Town Hall. It bore the legend" Luncheon Rooms Upstairs" a reminder of a more genteel age. I don`t know if it`s still open,as cI moved to Torbay many moon`s ago.
@@bakerloobadboy You mentioned William The Conqueror.At the top of High St. North and Barking Road there is/was? The William The Conqueror pub that we used to frequent when I worked at the old MFI store opposite,before it moved to Marsh Gate Lane Stratford. I wonder if William used to pop in there for a few pints of Stella? :)
Beautifully captured, John. Pretty much anywhere in Britain there is always the potential that under each footfall there are millennia of human history, particularly along our rivers where many thousands of people have walked. I can almost feel their vibrations coming through the soles of my boots when I stand at a river confluence. Cheers 👍🏽
What an incredible exploration! Mister Rogers, thank you so much for your delicate and elegant presentation and compliments for your lively eruduction. This is how places really bring history to life! (from Italy - Milano).
As always another great video and this one more so, as you actually filmed on the pavement right outside my house. The gate / barrier across the Aldersbrook where it goes underneath the railway (was always known as The Butts for some reason) was put there by the railway to replace an older smaller one. This is because the modern day "Underground construction and tunnelling academy" is built on the site of Aldersbrook House which was a British Rail Staff Hostel (the building was still there as late as 1995) and the fence / barrier was put there to keep out unwanted visitors. Ilford railway depot would be a stop over / terminus point for rail crews working into London Liverpool Street or Broad street. Staff would stay overnight at the hostel before working their route home the next day.
Surprising that the ladies who you met that were litter picking said they hadn't heard of the Aldersbrook as it is well represented in the area. To get from Wanstead Flats into Empress Avenue (where the UK government tested Citizens Band radio in the 70's) you had to cross Aldersbrook Road. The tunnel under the railway brought you out into Aldersbrook Lane. You walked along Daines Close (Possibly a vague link to the Danes stranded up towards Hertford when the River Lea was Diverted to trap them) to look over the wall for the Aldersbrook. I took some pictures from Ilford Bridge where you filmed the Aldersbrook joining the Roding a couple of days before you were there and the water was much higher. Ordinarily you can see the junction of the Roding and the Aldersbrook because the water from Aldersbrook is much dirtier and easier to spot in the very tidal river Roding
The chapel at the top of Ilford Hill has probably only survived this far because it is a place of worship, otherwise I have no doubt that some developer would have levelled it and built on top of the remains.
As always, your videos are epic. Can't wait for the next one
Thanks so much for all that info John
@@JohnRogersWalks You're welcome. I got interested in the local history of my area when I visited the Passmore Edwards museum in Stratford whilst still at school. I was always amazed by (for example) an old out of place building tucked in amongst all the new ones and was fascinated to learn its history . So many of your video's relate to areas I know, have lived in or worked in. You bring those areas to life with your video's.
Talking of rivers, have you seen the River Ching recently going through Hatch Forest? At this rate, we will be able to go white water rafting down it. It is truly an awesome sight!
There's a friends of Wanstead park as you must know. They organised a visit to the site of the big house some years ago. Don't forget how Astronomy was big around Wanstead too. Great video. So London sick am I. Really miss Leytonstone et al.
Great video. I come from the other side of London. East London is like another city to me, so I am grateful for videos such as this.
Why this channel doesn't have millions of subscribers? Truly soothing to watch with a perfect storytelling pace. Simply brilliant.
I love your blue beanie and matching blue rain jacket. I found them as soothing to view as the walk was to wander with you. I grew up in seven kings and Ilford was the shopping centre. I never knew there was such a historic building there.
Glad you like the blue beanie Amanda, I'm very fond of it
Your enthusiasm is infectious. Thx for this great walk.
I enjoyed and it good to know how back the area goes. Love to hear Barking Abbey
thanks Ann - here's a video from 2017 where I visit Barking Abbey th-cam.com/video/Pk_Y0KbnVSo/w-d-xo.html
@@JohnRogersWalks thank you.
Another great walk John, thank you for taking us with you. I lived for many years in Leytonstone, not far from the start of the walk, and from 2000 to 2007 worked in the car dealership (it is now Nissan, but I was there when it was Renault). I have walked the Ilford part many times, and sat on the benches in the chapel garden. Thinking about the high water level, reminded me of a few days while I was at the garage, when we had the Roding and Aldersbrook, both ‘burst their banks’ and the footpath and Romford Road were closed for several hours.
Enjoyed this greatly. See your next one....whatever it may be!
Lived in seven kings for a few years and passed that chapel unknowingly many times. Wished I knew it was there at the time, would of loved to see it in person. Thanks for your engrossing videos.
Another wonderful mystery tour in East London
More of what I missed when journeying thro Ilford
Pleasure to share SMILES 👍🇬🇧👌
Oh ma favourites prehistoric sites and small rivers. The Alders Brook is a live and well just beautiful
Thank you John for another trip down memory lane , love Carolyn from cedars road
all the best Carolyn
Oh, how I miss my home town. Thank you.
We are getting to know about London John from your wonderful walking episodes. We went on your two day break to Hampton Court yesterday and boy did it bring back memories!! 34 years ago we were living in eastern Canada and we went on a vacation back to the UK with our two very young daughters. One of our stops was the maze and grounds at Hampton court and your walk took us right back there. We look forward to going back on your previous walks to learn more about our homeland. Thanks John!! David, Alberta Canada🇨🇦
Fantastic John, you are a walking superstar. The flats were where we played our home games (football) for Forest Gate High School, and Cross Country Running in 1960s. School is opposite F. Gate Station.
Also went there for the fair which set up beside the big lake you showed.
Thank you.
thanks Jamie - wish I'd put in some footage of the fair that I've filmed in previous years. I also took my youngest son to the Circus there in the past
John thanks for your film clips which makes walking around so much more interesting , please keep doing what do so well
If you keep your sense of curiosity and wonder, an unjaded view on life and it's daily discoveries, you never grow old...Thank you John
that old pubat 29 59 think it used to have a sign on it that said the bit on the end was for coah and horses i often wonder how old it is shut down now very sadly great one john thank you steve
Wonderful and so interesting ,ive read so many books about London and yet all this is new to me, thanks John i look forward to watching all your previous vids .
I too look forward to your next walk.
I'm born and bread ilford boy I'm 52 now I've found some old history myself the places I found in ilford amazing I do love the history in general love your videos 👌🏻💯
Thoroughly enjoying your walks John, all the best from South Wales
Thank you John "Fascinating" Walk, Keep safe Looking forward to the Next. Dave in Yorkshire.😊
thanks very much Dave - hope you haven't got too much snow up there
Hey John, just found your channel about 3 weeks ago and its already one of my favourites. Been binging on your videos and can't wait for the lockdown to be over, so I can get out there and do some of these amazing walks. Keep up the great work John and stay safe
thanks very much Jay
Don’t loose the passion John, it’s infectious.
Talking of which, sharing the story of the lepers being cared for by the abbess and sisters at the beautiful chapel on Iford Hill was a wonderful ending.
A blessed act of compassion that is alone worth dwelling on.
Walk on my friend.
Thanks so much White stone
@@JohnRogersWalks
Have you seen this John. Thought it might be of interest.
th-cam.com/video/LZmH5U34kNo/w-d-xo.html
Beguiling, illuminating, enchanting....The way you dig out the history beneath the urban landscape it beguiles and enchants me! From your fan in BC Canada, who was born in Ilford. And the chapel......what a delight, who knew it was there?
Growing up in Manor Park I discovered the Aldersbrook from maps, having wondered where the road got it's name from. I was surprised to find it was already known to us kids as 'the stream', you tried not to fall in the stream while climbing over the concrete wall under the railway bridge (one of our hangouts). It doesn't surprise me that the locals don't know of it's existence, most think Wanstead Flats is called Wanstead Park.
You surprised me with Mill Rd, I had forgotten the horror of cycling through there as it was a great alternative to the muddy lane alongside the brook.
I did the same! I remember climbing the concrete wall as a child and then crossing Aldersbrook, there was a gas pipe that used to go across it which we used to dare one another to attempt otherwise use the bricks/stones that were on the water. I remember going under the railway bridge and into Ilford golf course! Nostalgic
Hi John, The double banking of the Roding was done in the mid-70's from memory with the arrival of the M11. The river was also altered then to allow construction. You can see a "null" bridge as you enter Woodford Bridge just by the Ashton Playing Fields entrance. The river used to flow through there and behind Uplands Road - causing frequent flooding of properties. Other areas were purposely left open as flood plains. The football pitches outside Broadmead Flats and Ray Lodge Park being good examples. The banking goes all the way up to Buckhurst Hill railway bridge before the river returns to nature proper. The idea was to allow the river to remain somewhat natural without turning it into a concrete channel. That largely worked I think although the banks can loom over you a bit in some of the more culverted sections. Stay well :-)
thanks for that Mouxbar - this was only recently pointed out to me in the summer on the video where I walk along the nature reserve between Wanstead and Charlie Brown's roundabout. Hadn't realised that before on my Roding walks
Thanks for another fantastic, educational and interesting walk John - I love these they are so calming and absorbing...really looking forward to the next one .... wherever that may be 😁
Loved the chapel at the end. 5hanks for the tour!
Love Wanstead Flats ! A place still fairly unmanicured, because it does n't need it . As always Great unearthing.Cheers John.
Fascinating I grew up in Barking 1962-1969 the Roding was unseen at the end of our street (Victoria Road)-history everywhere
Amazing ,thank you I never new about the Chapel.
Thank you and Yes I feel the rivers spirits
Great video John! There’s 2 videos there, waiting to be made, travels along Romford Road and Barking Abbey! Interesting reading some comments about travelling to Ilford as a special occasion, I grew up in Plaistow and would visit Ilford shops with my mum as a day out! You had Littlewoods, M&S, Harrison Gibson shops. 👏🏻👍
I saved this for Sunday night. A perfect way to end the weekend.
Love the Videos, the History....a murky English Winter Landscape seems so Elegant watching from within my Siamese Comfort Zone, I used to paint Landscapes many years ago, your videos inspire me to start again, there are a lot of colours in an English Winter Scene that a lot of Folk would not look for or see..I would love to exploit that colour and put it on Canvas again, anyway you are an inspiration.
Thanks John, top form today. Brighten up a dull January afternoon.
Thanks Ray
Oh dear. Ilford used to be in Essex! My Nan used to live in York Mews off of York Road. The area around Aldersbrook river where it joins the Roding and where the Underground Tunnel Training Centre is now was the Aldersbrook Railway Hostel and Training Centre. This was an accommodation facility for rail staff on overnight stayovers when the railways were a national concern rather than the now limited local operations. It closed in the late 80s, but became a training facility for signalling operations and maintenance and continues today in its present guise.
There was a local entrepreneur who wanted to build a marina at the confluence of the Aldersbrook to the Roding, and a couple of boats appeared but it came to nothing and the boats were sunk or set fire to. There was a local sea scouts training type establishment in the same area. Can remember Ilford Films and the Paper Makers Arms round the back streets. The one in the vid opposite Mill Road was the Rose & Crown. Sankeys' Pyruma Works was half way up Ilford Hill,
and Mill Road was home to Holding & Barnes breakers yard. There was a South Essex Water Works steam pumping station and had visiting flocks of sheep to keep the grass short! The engine from the pumping station ended up at the Museum of Power at Langford near Maldon. If you visit Barking, find the Rushing Waters, from memory there was the remnants of a lock that kept the water level navigable upto Ilford.
The Conservative Club was the old Police Station. Sorry no trolleybuses, but thats another story!👍
brilliant info Peter thanks so much
Another great walk.. Thanks mush..
Nice peaceful walk, I think. Good on you. Thanks a lot
I live in Ilford, just in the flats on Ilford Hill. So nice to know u have walked until our flats, i cud see them in the video.
The Hospital Chapel is very beautiful inside with the stained glass windows n the pews n the statues inside. They used to have Open days previously, n we visited it what with staying just opposite to it. It is a hidden gem. Nondescript, yet splendid.
A wonderfully evocative video, John. I was particularly fascinated and astonished by the hidden gem that is the Hospital Chapel in Ilford. It truly is incredible how one place can relate and connect to another without ever seeming to be linked on the face of it, geographically or historically: where I live, in Dunfermline, there is a site called Malcolm Canmore's Tower, which is reputed to have been constructed in the 10th or 11th century. All that remains today are a few fragments of the foundation. But I mention it because Queen Maud ( who became Henry I 's wife ) was born in the tower in 1068. And David I of Scotland, Canmore's son, would have known the Tower intimately. I had no idea either of them had an association with the Ilford Hospital Chapel.
Loved this video and so many of your others too. I learn so much from them and can’t wait to visit London again, so I can see it with new eyes. Thank you!
Thanks Gemma
Mention of William Kemp immediately brought to mind the lyric:
"Since Robin Hood, Maid Marian,
And Little John are gone,
The hobby horse was quite forgot,
When Kemp did dance alone
He did labour
After the tabor.
For to dance,
Then into France.
He took pains to skip it
In hope of gains. He did trip it
On the toe,
Diddle diddle diddle doe."
Delightful!
Another wondeful video. For half an hour i forgot all about the current situation and relaxed.
Superlative content. Your work is such a tonic in these pestilential times, John🇯🇪
Haven’t been for a walk with you for sometime. Excellent walk and very interesting John 👍👍
thanks Peter
Enjoy your videos. I live in Manor Park and have recently introduced the other half to your channel too.
We've been watching your videos on the big telly. Coincidentally, we actually walked some of this the route to Valentines park a couple of weeks ago.
Thanks so much Laura
Just what I was in need of just after my Sunday dinner lovely vid John
See you on your next vid where ever it my be
Cheers Matt
Thank you for the walk and information.