Memorial to Edward Onslow Ford

The memorial sits quietly in one of London's parks, a bronze figure that most people walk straight past without a second glance. Edward Onslow Ford was a Victorian sculptor of some repute, and this monument to him is rather more understated than you'd expect from someone of his standing - which is precisely why it's worth stopping to look at properly.

You won't spend long here, truthfully. It's not the sort of attraction that demands an afternoon. Five minutes of proper attention is enough to appreciate the craftsmanship and read up on Ford's role in the 19th-century art world. The real appeal is that it's genuinely peaceful, the kind of spot where you can actually hear yourself think in London.

History enthusiasts will get more from this than casual visitors, particularly if you're interested in Victorian sculpture and the artistic movements of that era. Children will find it a bit dull unless they're already keen on monuments and memorials. Free to visit, naturally - it's in a public park.

The memorial works best as part of a broader London park walk rather than a dedicated destination. Lovat Parks sits just three miles away, making this a reasonable add-on if you're staying in the area and fancy a day exploring London's green spaces and their more obscure historical features. Pair it with a longer ramble through whichever park houses it and you've got something worthwhile.