A park in Bexley, complete with 12th-century ruins and featuring a fossil pit, has retained its prestigious Green Flag Award.

The award signifies that the park meets the highest environmental standards, is maintained impeccably and offers excellent facilities for visitors.

It was announced that Lesnes Abbey Woods retained it’s award on July 14.

Spread over 88-hectares, Lesnes Abbey Woods provides a unique glimpse into the area's medieval and prehistoric past.

Visitors can explore the 12th-century abbey ruins, search for shark teeth and seashells in the fossil pit, and enjoy the fragrant herbs and flowers in the Monks Garden.

The Woods' Lesnes Lodge operates as a cultural and educational hub, hosting a variety of events throughout the year, such as guided nature walks, historical tours, live music, farmers markets, and community festivals.

An outdoor educational space is also set to launch later this year.

The Green Flag Award recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting a benchmark for the management of green spaces in the UK and globally.

Councillor Richard Diment, Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: "We are honoured that Lesnes Abbey Woods has been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for another year.

“This accolade is a testament to the tireless efforts of our Park and Open Spaces Team and local volunteers, including the ‘Friends of Lesnes Abbey’.

“Their continued hard work and dedication have ensured this historic site remains a cherished green oasis in the heart of Bexley."

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Lesnes Abbey Woods on achieving a Green Flag Award.

“Lesnes Abbey Woods is a vital green space for communities in the London Borough of Bexley to socialise, enjoy nature, for children to play safely and it provides important opportunities for park users to improve their physical and mental health.

“We know that staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award, everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement.

“It is important that our free to use spaces are maintained to the Green Flag Award standard, making them accessible for all members of the community while ensuring the environment is protected.”