Blackpool Stanley Park
Stanley Park was started in 1920 when the Mayor of Blackpool and Sir Albert Parkinson purchased a large area of land on the out skirts of town. Later Blackpool Council purchased additional land and took over the project
The design of the park was given to a local architect who was assisted by Dr Mackenzie who took teh responsibility to design the golf course. Dr Mackenzie had previously designed golf courses at Blackpool North Shore and at Lytham and St Annes.
The construction work was completed and the park opened to the public on 2nd October 1926 by Lord Derby, Sir George Edward Villiers Stanley, hense Stanley Park.
The park is a beautiful example of a Victorian park and as such it its national importance was recognised and it was granted a Grade II* Listing.
Currently some of the historic gardens are under going refurbishment to bring them back to their former glory.
The park is designed around a central Italian garden and the main paths radiate out from this.
The park is divided into four main areas: The Eastern quarter, The Northern quarter, The Western quarter and the Southern quarter.
The Eastern Quarter
This contains a large lake with rowing boats to hire or for the more lazy motor boats. The lake is home to many fish and on the banks and on the protected islands many birds make their homes.
In the spaces surrounding the lake you will find a bandstand with a impressive ampitheatre, a small crazy golf course and one of two or the parks rose gardens.
The Northern Quarter
The Northern quadrant is mainly occupied by the magnificent 18 hole golf course. This is open to both members and visiting non members. Within this area you will aslo find the second rose garden in all its splendour, together with six bowling greens and the parks central cafe.The cafe is in a beautiful art deco building and is a most impressive location for a cafe. Just round the corner is the Park's visitor centre for you to browse through the information.
The Western Quarter
This section houses a huge 5000 seater cricket ground which is home to the Blackpool Cricket Club. You will also find a sports arena which plays ghost to a number of athletic events during the year. Finally in this are you may find the Blackpool Sports Centre. This contains three sports halls, a gym and a climbing wall.
The Southern Quarter
The final quadrant is dominated by huge playing fields, a childrens play area and the Model Village. The model Village is an open air attraction that while in Blackpool's Stanley Park it is not directly accessable from the park. Finally you will find the tennis courts, astro turf pitches and a skate and bmx park.
