Posted: Thursday 1st August 2024
As we come to the end of another ‘Love Parks week’, we reflect on the importance of the many green spaces that span our boundaries. What better way to improve your mental health and physical wellbeing than by going for a stroll (or run) in the beautiful surroundings of a park, especially one that is close to home?
They’re also great for building relationships with your local community; you can meet many of your friends or neighbours on your daily visit or at a specially organised community event, like Pride in Leigh.
As a borough we are made up of more than 70 per cent green space, meaning we have many wonderful parks and countryside areas for you to visit, some of which have been awarded for their excellence with the prestigious Green Flag. This scheme sets a benchmark for high standards of greenspaces and strives to ensure that everyone has access to one.
Why not visit Mesnes Park in Wigan, Pennington Hall Park in Leigh, Jubilee Park in Ashton, Alexandra Park in Pemberton or Central Park in Atherton and see why these parks are so deserving of the Green Flag award.
Mesnes Park is located just outside of Wigan town centre and is definitely worth a visit if you’re nearby. Amongst its many attractions are the formal gardens, bandstand that features music events throughout the year, an elegantly restored pavilion that houses Fredericks café and children’s play areas.
Pennington Hall Park in Leigh was presented to Leigh Corporation in 1920 and is now one of the town’s most visited attractions. It boasts tennis courts, bowling greens, a band stand that hosts the annual Proms in the Park event (external link), manicured gardens and the community led Caffeina Café.
Jubilee Park spans an impressive 8.5 acres and is situated on either side of Wigan Road in Ashton. Its roots are royal, as the park got its name from its opening date which coincided with Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee! Facilities here include tennis and basketball courts, grass pitches, a play area, woodland and formal flower park.
Alexandra Park in Pemberton is split into two, with Victoria Street running through the middle. One side contains two bowling greens and a pavilion, whilst the other side has playing fields, a play area for everyone up to twelve years of age, tennis courts and an extreme sports facility.
Central Park in Atherton is the borough’s newest Green Flag recipient. This park has lots of open green spaces, with two play areas and an outside gym, making it a great visit for the whole family. It is also a beautiful place for quiet reflection with the ‘rainbow of remembrance’ rose garden, and information boards about the history of the area.
For information on the green spaces on your doorstep, visit Countryside and parks.