Birkenhead Park

About

Birkenhead Park first opened on April 5 1847 and is acknowledged as the first publicly funded park in Britain, designed by Sir Joseph Paxton.

It's thought that his design of the park - an idealised countryside landscape of open meadows, natural woodland belts and lakes shaped as rivers - was a model for many parks around the world including world famous Central Park in New York.

Alongside this architectural beauty is a large adventure playground for children, 2 cricket clubs, tennis courts, bowling greens, football pitches and fishing. (Please not that permits are required to fish in the park)

But it hasn't always bloomed as it does now. The park was damaged heavily during the Second World War by bombs and a Spitfire crash landing. It became neglected and run down towards the end of the 20th century. 

In 2002, an £11.25 million 5 year restoration sceme began and the park was officially re-opened by Birkenhead-born actress Patricia Routledge CBE. 

The restoration works saw the park's famous Swiss Bridge, Boat House and Grand Entrance restored. New bridges, paths and railings were installed and the original planting was restored. This reinstated Birkenhead Park's status as a national treasure.

Within the park, visitors will find a fantastic glass pavilion a dedicated visitor facility with café and exhibition gallery.

With all this and more – a visit to Birkenhead Park is truly a day out in itself and it's open all year!