The theme of this year’s #LoveParksWeek is women and girls. There are some amazing women working in parks in Islington, from council staff to volunteers. We talk to some of them about their favourite parks in Islington

Grace, grounds maintenance apprentice

I love Duncan Terrace Gardens, because it’s got a lovely sense of community and some really interesting plants. It feels like such an oasis in the city.

Miriam, chair of the Friends of Caledonian Park

I love Caledonian Park for lots of reasons. It’s biodiverse – our pollinator garden attracts all sorts of bees and butterflies, we have a thriving pond and we’re growing a beautiful orchard with apple, pear, plum, medlar, quince, cherry and apricot trees.

It’s also full of history – some of the first political demonstrations were held here! – and the Cally Clock Tower was built 168 years ago. It was originally the heart of a busy meat market, which turned into a huge flea market. Then, thanks to post-war danger and dereliction, it was rebuilt as a beautiful park and woodland.

Cally Park also attracts lots of different people – I love that such a diverse range of people visit it. It’s because it has something for everyone, from playgrounds or picnicking spots to peaceful woodland walks.

I’ve made lots of friends and have spent lots of time here. It’s helped me recover from illness.

Charithra, project manager, Islington Greener Together

Highbury Fields is Rosie and my green safe space. We are work buddies; we find the park is a calming space to chat away stress, blossom a friendship and embrace clarity. Also, laughing until our belly hurts on the park grass is a youthful feeling.

Muna, early childhood practitioner, Bright Start Islington

My favourite park in Islington is Gillespie Park. I particularly enjoy exploring the nature and wildlife and observing how engrossed the families and children are when we deliver stay and play sessions.

Adey and son, local residents

I love Gillespie Park because it is so green and calm. It’s in the middle of the city, but it feels like you’ve come into the countryside when you are here. It’s a step away from all the hustle and bustle.

Sally, parks partnership manager

Barnsbury Wood is such a special place. It’s London’s smallest nature reserve. It feels like a magical secret garden.

Lara, parks project manager

I love Milner Square because it’s a great spot to take a moment when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Upper Street. It’s also a lovely play space for little ones – a real hidden gem.

Eremira, community ranger

St John’s Gardens is one of my favourite greenspaces in Islington. I feel like I’m away from the fast-paced culture in London when I’m there, which is incredible as it’s located in one of London’s busiest areas, Farringdon. It’s truly one of Islington’s hidden gems, with so much history, horticulture, and wildlife tucked away from the busy street.

It reminds me of a tropical bohemian garden that offers everyone a welcoming space to connect with nature and relax.