The Mount was a football stadium located in Catford, in the southwest corner of what is now Mountsfield Park. Football had been played there since the mid-19th century, and by the early 20th century, Catford Southend F.C. had made it their home ground. Over time, the land was developed into a proper stadium with terracing, providing a distinctive venue for local matches.
The stadium itself was unusual, as it was elevated above the surrounding area, a feature that likely inspired its name, "The Mount." This unique setting made it a notable location for local football enthusiasts and added to its charm as a sporting venue.
In the 1923–1924 season, Charlton Athletic F.C. temporarily moved to The Mount as part of a proposed merger with Catford Southend F.C. The aim was to create a larger team with a broader support base. However, the merger plans ultimately fell through, and Charlton Athletic returned to their original ground, The Valley, the following season.
Following Charlton's departure, Catford Southend continued to play at The Mount until the stadium was closed in January 1927. The grounds were subsequently incorporated into Mountsfield Park. Today, the former site of The Mount is a grassy area within the park, preserving a quiet memory of the area's historic connection to London's footballing past.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
The Mount might not exist as a stadium anymore, but if you're a football history buff, this spot will definitely pique your interest. Imagine yourself standing where passionate matches were played. It's like stepping back in time!
Check out the elevated terrain where The Mount once stood. It's fascinating to see how the natural landscape influenced the stadium design. Walk around and get a feel for its unique setting, which made it such a distinctive venue.
Bring a picnic and enjoy it on the grassy area where the stadium used to be. It's a lovely spot to relax, catch some sunshine, and soak in the historical vibes of this unique part of Mountsfield Park.
While exploring, keep an eye out for any remnants or subtle hints of its sporting past. Though largely transformed into parkland, you might spot a few relics or changes in terrain that whisper stories of The Mount's vibrant footballing days.
Head over to Mountsfield Park's community garden nearby! After immersing yourself in football history, this peaceful area offers a charming contrast with its vibrant array of plants and flowers tended by local volunteers.
Visiting Times & Costs:
The Mount Football Stadium no longer exists as it was, but its former site is now part of Mountsfield Park, which is open to the public. Therefore, visitors can freely access the area where the stadium once stood during the park's opening hours.
Opening Hours:
- Mountsfield Park is generally open daily from dawn until dusk, providing ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy the surroundings.
Admission:
- Entrance to Mountsfield Park, including the area where The Mount once stood, is free of charge.
Accessibility:
- The park is fairly accessible, with paths and open grassy areas. However, some uneven terrain might pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
Address & Map:
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