Hurst Grange Park, Penwortham
Hurst Grange Park is a serene landscape of trees, ponds and wildflower meadows. Its beauty has never changed, but its story has.
The landscaped parkland can be credited to a former Lancashire judge, William Adam Hulton, who laid out the foundations of Hurst Grange to build his estate on the lands - the Hurst Grange Mansion.
In 1848 Judge Hulton authorised the building of stables and a coach house - the same one that still stands today thanks to the estate's Coachman - William Ravenscroft - who was a resident in the grounds' gate lodge and maintained the building. The mansion however fell into disrepair and was demolished in 1938.
The coach house was refurbished in 2020 overseen by the South Ribble Council,. It is now the hub of the park, playing host to the visitor's centre, café, indoor events space and toilet facilities - a true rags-to-riches story.
An archaeological survey around the time of the restoration located where the mansion once stood, proving that its foundations have survived since the Victorian era. It is hoped that the community can be involved in an archaeological excavation of the site in the future.
Hurst Grange's expansive lands are elegantly split into two distinct areas, with the northern half soaked in history as the former Victorian estate, boasting a landscape of rolling hills, mature woodlands and specimen trees. The southern portion is rich in natural beauty, playing host to younger woodlands, meadows and five species ponds, including the protected great Crested Newt.
The park's meadows are a particular favourite with visitors as they are laden with wildflowers like orchids and provide the perfect spot for a picnic. You can also dine at the café - which serves Cakes, sandwiches, hot and cold drinks - or take a seat on the picnic benches outside the old coach house.
The 'Friends of Hurst Grange' have dedicated their time to the restoration of Penwortham's largest park. They have created attractions like the wildlife and dementia-friendly garden, opened on 8 October 2021 with the help of a £30,000 grant secured from the Lancashire Environmental Fund and a £500 Stewardship Grant for a bee tower.
The community garden is close to the entrance, easily accessible to less-mobile visitors. The refurbished paths provide park-wide access to wheelchairs, prams and bicycles. There's even a place to park your bike next to the carpark and coach house while you take a break.
The park is the perfect place for children to let off some steam. Hurst Grange's play area is now equipped with soft flooring, big slides, swings and even boasts a mini racetrack.
With plenty of events running through the year, check out The Friends of Hurst Grange Facebook page to make sure you don't miss out. They regularly host 'bat walks' throughout the year.
Key details:
- Address: Hill Road, Penwortham, Preston, PR1 9XH
- Free car parking
- Visitor centre (opening times apply)
- Public toilets (opening times apply)
- To check the park is open, contact the council ranger on 01772 422316