A beautiful park/arboretum in Lancaster, just out of the city centre, which I visited nearly weekly for 8 years.Williamson's Park has vast paths, perfect for dog walking, horse riding, running and cycling around! All of which I've done during the 8 years I lived in Lancaster.Within the park is a butterfly house too (have to pay to go in here), the pavilion cafe (which does a yummy breakfast and great hot chocolate - though don't go if you're in a rush because it's always busy and staff aren't the fastest), and a gift shop. The focal point of the park is the Ashton Memorial, built by Lord Ashton as a memorial to his wife (or so I believe). When my now husband and I got engaged, there was no question of where we would tie the knot - it had to be here. Our day was perfect and the staff who helped organise our day were great too.The park also has a separate arboretum area called Fenham Carr, which is great for dog walking and horse riding - though don't wear shoes you don't mind getting muddy. There is an outdoor theatre where they stage plays during the summer months too, though in my 8 years in Lancaster I never made it to one.
The park was constructed on behalf of Lord Ashton who also commissioned the building of the wonderful Ashton Memorial in memory of his wife. The Memorial was closed as there was scaffolding up but when open there are often exhibitions there. There are different paths all round the park to have a wander round and gorgeous views looking out towards Morecambe Bay while sitting on the benches near the Memorial. There is a Butterfly House but it is a long time since we visited that and there is a small charge. There is a playground for children and a café and a lake with lots of ducks. During the Summer there are outdoor performances which take place in different parts of the park. The park has been extended into Fenham Carr, a woodland area which used to be part of the Lancaster Moor Hospital.
Williamson park is a very old and well established park, with formal and informal areas for quiet walking. It also has within its grounds a well known building called the Memorial building. It is prominent from the M6 motorway and is how people recognise the city of Lancaster from the motorway. There is also a cafe, butterfly house and numerous other attractions.
A little walk from the town centre (about fifteen minutes) but the walk will take you past the cathedral. Some good views of Lancaster and the surrounding area from here. Even better views from the Ashton Memorial (donation asked for to climb the steps to the viewing platforms)
One of the most interesting parks I have visited. Paths wind up and down and offer a variety of views and water features. The Lord Ashton Memorial is stunning and the view from there over Morecambe Bay excellent. We visited the Butterfly house, saw quite a few but had expected more. There was a large dead fish in the water, not a good spectacle for children. The cave of small animals, reptiles etc was very interesting but the low height of the viewing windows and rather cramped layout made it more friendly for children than adults. Highlight was the chameleon. Nevertheless it was ok value for £3.70 adults and £2.70 children and lots to see in the 50 acre grounds for free. We enjoyed our visit.
Really beautiful park, built on a hill with views across the bay to the Lake District. Excellent for kids to play safely in woods and toilets and cafe on site. Disabled parking within the park and good pathways. The butterfly house and mini zoo are great for rainy days and not very expensive admission charge to go in. Cafe has seating outside for dog walkers.
It's a little patch of peace in the city. 5 mins out of town and you are greeted by a lovely view over Lancaster and out to the coast. Even on a busy Saturday there are areas where you are quite alone. Like all parks sometimes suffers from some wind blown litter but the staff keep on top of it. Doggy friendly and most people keep to the rules a pleasure being able to have a cuppa without having to leave the hound in the car or outside if it raining what a treat.
Great for the kids to run about and play, Butterfly house and mini beast area are reasonably priced and interesting enough for the kids. Cafes not bad either...Fantastic views. You can read up on a bit of History about Lord Ashton in the memorial. Also the plays in the park in summer are great to go and see.
This is a very nice park with a very interesting Victorian heritage. The main building is accessible and its worth going to the upper floors for the great view. There is a small café serving great snacks and drinks. Ice cream in summer is excellent. There is an enclosed play area for small children. There are a number of short walks round the park which we really enjoyed apart from people letting their dogs roam free, despite signs to the contrary so be careful if you take your pet.
Williamson park and the memorial tower are certainly worth a visit when you are in the area. The memorial tower is stunning and the butterfly house is nice to have a look round. The grounds of the park are well landscaped and although the lake is in need of some serious tlc , if you make your way up to the top of the hill, the views over morecambe bay a second to none. The memorial tower is a popular venue for wedding ceremonies, and I will be giving my daughter away at her wedding here in october!Praying for nice weather!