9 of the best parks in and around Preston
How many of these have you visited?
Here in Lancashire we're very lucky to have a lot of green spaces around us, however, how often do you get out and enjoy them?
From the beautiful Victorian and Edwardian Parks, such as Miller Park and Haslam Park, to the beautifully restored Winckley Square in the centre of Preston, we take look at some of the best parks right on our doorstep. How many of these have you visited?
Here are nine of the best parks in and around Preston:
Avenham Park
Just a short walk from the city centre, Avenham Park is a natural amphitheater, holding several music events over the years, including the annual Easter Egg Rolling! This annual tradition has been celebrated for years in the park, rain or shine.
As well as going for a stroll in the park, you can also enjoy a walk next to the river, a cup of tea in the café, or even a trip up to the hidden gem - The Belvedere, to see the view across the park and river. Nestled inside Avenham Park is also the Japanese Garden, for those who are looking for a little retreat away from the busy city.
Miller Park
Just next door to Avenham Park is the more formal Miller Park, with its large fountain, band stand and West Grotto, Miller Park is a place to enjoy the beautiful floral arrangements.
Listed with English Heritage as a Grade II* listed park, the park is named after Thomas Miller, who was a local cotton manufacturer and donated the land for the park. Miller Park is overlooked by the former Park Hotel, which, after many years of other uses, is now set to be refurbished once again as a hotel.
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Just outside Preston, situated on the other side of Junction 31 of the M6, is Brockholes Nature Reserve. After opening in 2011, the nature reserve has welcomed more than 1 million visitors. Based in an old quarry, visitors can now explore a 250 acre reserve full of a network of trails and hides.
The Brockholes Nature Reserve also has a visitor village, which includes several floating buildings, where you can enjoy a meal, or learn more about the animals at the reserve. Entry to the park is free, although there is a charge for parking.
Cuerden Valley Park
Just to the south of Preston is Cuerden Valley Park, which is a massive green oasis of 650 acres. The park is a working estate with parkland and farmland, which was previously the grounds of Cuerden Hall. Entry to the park is free, although there is a charge for parking.
Moor Park
Nestled between Garstang Road, Sir Tom Finney Way and Blackpool Road, Moor Park's size is the first thing that comes to mind - as it is Preston's largest, and oldest park. Split into several areas, the park has a small observatory owned by the University of Central Lancashire, a bowling green, skate park and several fields, as well as a café and playground for younger kids.
Over the years, Moor Park has played host to many music events hosting names such as Calvin Harris, David Guetta and Rihanna.
Moor Park is free to visit, and there is free parking around the park, the main car park is off Sir Tom Finney Way, opposite Preston North End.
Winckley Square
Following its restoration, which finished in 2017, Winckley Square has become a fantastic park to relax, just a short walk from Preston's busy main street, Fishergate. Winckley Square was originally developed as an exclusive residential area in 1801.
The beautiful Georgian townhouses that surround the square are now a mixture of private houses, offices and restaurants. Winckley Square is free to visit, with pay and display parking surrounding it.
Hurst Grange Park
Hidden just off Cop Lane in Penwortham, Hurst Grange Park is the largest park in Penwortham and was once owned by William Adam Hulton's family in the now demolished Hurst Grange mansion. The park is now full of mature trees and rolling hills, ponds and wildflower meadows.
Hurst Grange Coach House, is the only part of the original building that remains standing and was restored in 2021 and now contains a café and hall available to hire. Entry to the park is free, with free parking just off Hill Road.
Haslam Park
Set on Lancaster Canal, Haslam Park is a beautiful Edwardian park in Ashton. The park's two main entrances feature Grade II listed gates and make the park particularly special. Since 2006, the northern part of the park has become Haslam Park Nature Reserve and that, along with the sensory gardens, lime tree avenue and old drinking fountain, mean that this park should not be missed.
Ashton Park
Just off Blackpool Road in Preston, Ashton Park was originally part of the grounds of the grand Ashton House which was built in 1810. It was later used for recreational purposes, before being bought in 1937 by Preston Town Council for just ÂŁ27.
Ashton Park now boasts small woodlands, flower displays and a peace garden, along with two bowling greens, tennis courts, outdoor gym and nine football pitches!
How many of these parks have you visited? Can you recommend anymore in the area?
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