History of Finsbury Park & the Surrounding Area
New River opened
The artificial waterway that is still present today running through the park was opened to help supply London's water infrastructure.
First plans drawn up for Finsbury Park
Locals and politicians in the surrounding area petition and campaign for a park in the locality.
Finsbury Park Act
The act was passed in 1857, giving the go ahead for the park as we know it today to be created - this was the first municipal park to be ratified by an act of parliament.
First station at Finsbury Park opened
In July 1861 the first train station was opened at Finsbury Park and was originally named Seven Sisters Road.
Park officially opened
On 9th August 1969 the ribbon was cut and the park was officially made accessible to the public.
Station renamed to Finsury Park
In November of the same year the train station was renamed to what we all know it as today.
The Faltering Fullback pub first opened
The famous local pub now known as the Faltering Fullback was originally opened as the Sir Walter Scott. It got its current name in 1994 and is loved by rugby fans from all over the city.
The Blackstock opened
Everyone's favourite north London pub opened its doors for the first time. Friday and Saturday nights would never be the same again.
Piccadilly Line opened
The first section of the Piccadilly line started running, stretching between Finsbury Park and Hammersmith.
Second World War
Throughout WWII the park hosted anti-aircraft guns and was utilised for military training as part of Britain's total war.
Victoria Line opened
The Piccadilly Line was joined by the Victoria Line, further improving the area's connections to the wider city.
Hot air balloon mosaic installed
Annabel Grey's beautiful hot air balloon mosaics were installed on the station's platform walls.
Greater London Council collapses
Following the winding up of the Greater London Council, ownership of the park was passed to Haringey Council.
Heritage Lottery Fund application
After Finsbury Park started falling into disrepair, Haringey Council approached the Hertiage Lottery Fund for investment. This resulted in almost £5million of funding for the park.
Major Work completed
Major improvements to the park were completed, culminating in a formal ceremony in October 2006.
Wireless Festival first hosted
The world famous Wireless music festival was hosted for the first time at the park, featuring Bruno Mars and Outkast.
Finsbury Park linked to Thameslink network
Travel connections continued to improve with the station being linked to the Thameslink network, making for easy access both north and south of the city.