Sydenham Hill Wood

Sydenham Hill Wood contains a stone folly featuring arched windows and decorative elements designed by James Pulham & Son to resemble remains of a medieval church. The structure uses artificial Pulhamite rock to create the appearance of ancient architecture.

The folly was built around 1864 for Alderman David Henry Stone, a wealthy landowner of the area. The use of Pulhamite rock was an innovative technique of the period to mimic authentic ruins.

This structure reflects Victorian garden design when wealthy landowners created buildings that mimicked classical ruins. Such artificial remains expressed a fascination with history and romanticism that defined the era.

The folly is located near Cox's Walk entrance within dense woodland and can be reached via Crescent Wood Road or Forest Hill Overground station. Access is on foot through forest paths winding between trees and undergrowth.

Until the 1950s, fragments of stained glass remained in the window frames, giving the structure the appearance of genuine medieval church ruins. These glass pieces contributed greatly to the illusion and gradually disappeared over time.

Location: London Borough of Southwark

GPS coordinates: 51.43590,-0.06710

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:59