Gladstone Park, previously known as the Dollis Hill Estate, underwent a transformation in 1901 to become a public park. Named after Sir William Gladstone, the former Liberal Party Prime Minister, the park has a rich history of hosting distinguished guests like Mark Twain and offering various attractions such as tree-lined pathways, a walled garden, a duck pond, and sports pitches. The park was once home to Dollis Hill House, a country retreat frequented by Gladstone and Twain, which unfortunately was demolished in 2012. However, the park remains a beloved spot for many, including our four-legged friends who have turned it into a canine paradise known affectionately as Gladstone Bark.
My family’s connection to the park spans generations, with memories of tea dances at the grand house and swimming escapades at the lido in the 1980s. Nowadays, my husband and our schnoodle, Dolly, make daily visits to the park, following a routine that includes stops at the playground, bridge, and a much-needed coffee break. While my husband and Dolly share a special bond during their walks, I often find myself on the receiving end of Dolly’s disapproving looks when I take her out for a stroll. It seems that I’m just not the preferred human for this particular adventure.
As we venture into the park, I try to mimic my husband’s walking style, complete with frequent stops for sniffing and socializing with other dogs. Dolly, the elder stateswoman of the park, enjoys basking in the attention and treats bestowed upon her by fellow visitors. However, my attempts to replicate my husband’s routine are met with mixed results, as Dolly asserts her authority over the pace and direction of our walk. Despite my best efforts to keep her engaged, Dolly often decides when our walk comes to an abrupt end, leaving me with dirty hands and a sense of defeat.
Navigating the park with Dolly proves to be a challenge, as she asserts her independence and celebrity status among her canine peers. From encounters with other dog owners to unexpected interruptions along the way, our walks are always filled with surprises and moments of frustration. As we make our way back home, I can’t help but marvel at the beauty of Gladstone Park and the joy it brings to so many, especially our furry companions. In the end, it’s not about the destination but the journey, even if it means following Dolly’s lead every step of the way.
