Park Road Gardens, near the centre of Grange-over-Sands, is a beautiful garden retreat
providing a haven of peace and tranquillity. It was opened in 1929 and designed to
be an attractive open space with bay views rather than an elaborate garden, consequently
the greater part was laid out in grass plots with specimen trees and shrubs. Although
many trees have now reached maturity it is still possible to appreciate the views.
Listed gem of bandstand
The centrepiece of the Gardens is the Grade II listed Edwardian bandstand positioned in the centre of a lily pond. This was purchased for the people of Grange by Harold Porritt J.P. who came to live here in 1895 - one of Grange's generous benefactors. The bandstand was originally sited on the promenade, next to the Tea Rooms, but soot and flying hot cinders from the passing steam trains became such a hazard that it was moved to its present location in the Park. It was made by J & A Law of Glasgow and is a rare example of an ornamental structure from this particular manufacturer as they specialised in industrial ironware. It is worth noting that the bandstand was originally positioned on an island. A removable wooden ramp provided access - the bridge did not appear until 1933.
Sensory Garden
In the lower part of the Park adjacent to the railway you will find a Sensory Garden full of plants and shrubs with lovely scents, vibrant colours, varieties of texture and interesting forms.
A “Green Flag” Park
The high standards realised by the partnership working in the Park has been recognised by a Green Flag Award each year since 2007. The significant accolade has once again been awarded to the Park for 2009/10.
Supported by a “Friends” group
The park is supported by a “The Friends of Park Road Gardens” who work closely with South Lakeland District Council and their contractors, Continental Landscapes. Recently the Friends have provided bird and bat boxes, tree identification labels and have produced a leaflet which you will find in tourist information offices and other public places.
80th Anniversary
In June 2009 the Park celebrated its 80th Anniversary and a special week of events was held culminating with a celebratory concert on the last day. In 1929, Besses o' th' Barn Brass Band from Whitefield near Bury, was invited to play at the opening ceremony. It was, therefore, decided to invite the band to return to Grange to play at the Anniversary Concert. It was a wonderful occasion attended by over 450 people who enjoyed an exciting programme of music including several pieces which were played at the opening ceremony in 1929.
Events in the Park
During the summer months a programme of "Music in the Park" events is presented on Sunday afternoons. The Park is the venue for a variety of events including band concerts, youth theatre and Grange's annual Edwardian Festival which is held each year on the second Saturday in June. On this occasion the Park steps back in time to the Edwardian era with a variety of stalls lining the paths, music from a barrel organ, Punch-and-Judy shows and day-long entertainment centred around the bandstand. Come along in Edwardian dress and enter the competition for the best Edwardian outfit.
Park Road Gardens Today
Park Road Gardens - Pictures from the Past
For information about local
accommodation and events programme visit the
Grange Tourist Information Centre website
For information on how to get to Park Road Gardens please click here.
This is the
website of the Friends of Park Road Gardens.
20090826
Park Road Gardens
Grange-over-Sands