Victoria Park (or Vicky park as it is affectionately known by locals) in the East End was opened as a park for the people after a local MP presented Queen Victoria with a petition of 30,000 signatures. The idea was to be a Regent's park of the East. With canals, lakes and trees making a beautiful place to wander and support wildlife, as well as play areas.
During the second world war it was used as a prisoner of war camp, first for the Italians, then for the Germans.
Now it is a place for open air concerts, (fireworks last week) sporting activities and general family fun. Including it seems 17 regattas a year for the oldest model boat club in the world. I'll check that one out for photos.