IMAGES TAKEN NEAR TO
Rectory Gardens, NORTHOLT, UB5 5DN

Northala Fields was opened in 2008 and consists of four artificial hills standing next to the A40 Western Avenue, as well as several fishing lakes and a large field. The hills were constructed using rubble from the demolition of the original Wembley Stadium, which was closed in 2000 and demolished in 2003. The park has won a number of major awards. The name "Northala" is how the old manor of Northall (Northolt) was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086. See also http://www.londongardenstrust.org/features/northala.htm This view looks from the top of the highest of the four mounds towards the spire at Harrow-on-the-Hill. In the foreground beyond the A40 is Belvue Park and St Mary the Virgin Church at Northolt - see http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4916217 - and on the horizon is the wooded hilltop of Harrow-on-the-Hill with the spire of St Mary's Church.

This view from Rowdell Road looks up the hill to St Mary the Virgin Church at Northolt. See http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4916217 Ian Nairn in Nairn's London (1966) described Northolt Church: "The picture of old Middlesex, from Western Avenue: a couple of fields and the little church behind, brilliant tile roofs, white walls, and a sparkling white bellcote. A cameo to sustain you for the ride into London." The view he was taking about can be seen at http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4916647

The road markings indicate the lane drop ahead at Northolt intersection.

Also known as Northolt and Greenford Countryside Park. St Mary's Church is in the background. This link is for a Transport for London recommended walk which features this location http://www.tfl.gov.uk/streets/walking/walkdetails.asp?id=38

This view from Rowdell Road looks up the hill to St Mary the Virgin Church at Northolt. See http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4916217 Ian Nairn in Nairn's London (1966) described Northolt Church: "The picture of old Middlesex, from Western Avenue: a couple of fields and the little church behind, brilliant tile roofs, white walls, and a sparkling white bellcote. A cameo to sustain you for the ride into London." This was the view he was taking about.

Better known as an airfield and a station on the London Underground, it's easy to forget that Northolt, like many places round here, is an ancient settlement. It was called Northala in the Domesday Book. The parish church is from the 13th century.