Nonsuch Park, located between Cheam and Ewell Village is not only a beautiful open space but also holds great heritage. With over 400 acres to enjoy, it has been open to the public since 1937.

However it has not always been a public space. Nonsuch Park once belonged to King Henry VIII, who decided to build a palace, starting work on the thirtieth anniversary of his accession. After two months, the name ‘Nonsuch’ started to appear in official documents. Costs began to mount and eight years later the palace was still unfinished and had cost £24,536. Even on Henry’s death, it remained unfinished but the little that remained to be completed was done so by Henry Fitzalan, Twelfth Earl of Arundel, who bought the palace in 1556.

In 1592, Elizabeth I regained the palace, where it remained in Royal ownership until 1670, when it was given to the mistress of Charles II. Sadly she demolished the palace in 1682 and divided and sold the park to cover debts.

Today only small remnants of the Palace can be seen. A mansion house now stands proud in the centre of the park; built in 1731-43 by Joseph Thompson, it resembles the design of the original Nonsuch Palace.

Despite the loss of the Palace, the Mansion house, gardens and ‘The Nonsuch Pantry’ cafe attract many visitors all year round. From dog walkers to runners, sunbathers to photographers and children to grandparents, the gardens have something to offer for all. Whether you prefer the formal and landscaped gardens in the Mansion House grounds, or whether you like the wild open spaces found deeper into the park, there is always something of interest in every season.

At this time of year, as winter ends, the park scenery is dotted with snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils, providing the perfect opportunity for photographers to catch the first breath of spring. Whilst sitting in ‘The Nonsuch Pantry’ enjoying a tea or coffee, it is now possible to admire the elegance of the snowdrops amongst the trees.

On my many trips through the park, to and from school, I often think about all of the wonderful photographs that could be taken. I took the opportunity last week, to finally capture the delicate spattering of snowdrops with my vintage 35mm cameras.

I have often walked past and seen many a photographer taking a picture of the snowdrops. I tried my hand at it this year, why don’t you have a look around and see what you can capture?