Rights Managed > Historic England > More features > Festivals and Exhibitions > Festival of Britain 1951
Festival Pleasure Gardens a077613
Filename: aa077613.jpg
Size: 4374 x 4311 (12.0MB)
Date: 15th December 2015
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Images
© Historic England
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Festival Pleasure Gardens a077613
Festival Pleasure Gardens, Battersea Park, Wandsworth, London. Passengers riding the waterchute fairground ride at the Battersea Festival Gardens, Greater London, illuminated at night. Battersea Park was transformed as part of the Festival of Britain celebrations in 1951. Photographed 1955-60 by John Gay
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 11483511
© Historic England
Archive Exhibition Fairground Leisure Night People Recreation Water
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> More features
> Festivals and Exhibitions
> Festival of Britain 1951
> Historic Images
> Famed Photographers
> John Gay Collection (1945-1990)
> Historic Images
> Historic Images 1900s - 1910s
> The way we were
> Leisure
> Entertainment
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the vibrant atmosphere of the Festival Pleasure Gardens in Battersea Park, London. Taken by renowned photographer John Gay between 1955 and 1960, this image showcases a thrilling fairground ride that was a highlight of the festivities during the Festival of Britain celebrations in 1951. As night falls, the illuminated landscape comes alive with an enchanting glow, casting shadows on excited faces. Passengers can be seen braving the waterchute ride, their expressions a mix of anticipation and exhilaration. The dynamic movement frozen in time adds to the sense of adventure and joy permeating through this scene. The festival grounds are teeming with people seeking leisurely entertainment amidst an era marked by post-war rejuvenation. This photograph serves as a nostalgic reminder of simpler times when communities gathered to celebrate life's pleasures together. John Gay's masterful composition not only captures individual moments but also conveys a larger narrative about recreation and communal spirit. It transports viewers back to an era where amusement parks were cherished spaces for families and friends to create lasting memories. Preserved within Historic England's archives, this print is more than just a visual record; it is a testament to our shared cultural heritage. It reminds us of how public spaces like Battersea Park have evolved over time while retaining their ability to bring people together for fun-filled experiences under twinkling lights.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
