Located in the picturesque town of Burnley, Lancashire, Thompson Park is a beautiful and historic green space that offers a perfect escape for residents and visitors alike. The park covers an impressive 44 acres of lush, green landscapes, and it is an ideal spot for family outings, picnics, and leisurely strolls. As a local realtor, I am always eager to share with potential homebuyers the many wonderful features and amenities that Thompson Park has to offer. So, let’s dive in and explore the beauty and charm of this delightful local treasure.
A Brief History
Thompson Park was officially opened in 1930, a generous gift to the town of Burnley by James Yorke Scarlett Thompson. The park was designed by Thomas Mawson, a renowned British landscape architect, who was responsible for several other parks and gardens throughout the United Kingdom. The original design incorporated elements of both formal and informal garden styles, which can still be seen and enjoyed today.
Over the years, Thompson Park has undergone various improvements and restoration projects, including the refurbishment of the boating lake and the construction of a new children’s play area. The park was awarded a Green Flag in 2019, a prestigious recognition that celebrates well-managed parks and green spaces, which is a testament to the ongoing commitment to preserving this lovely park for future generations to enjoy.
Lush Landscapes and Beautiful Gardens
One of the most striking features of Thompson Park is its diverse range of beautifully maintained gardens and green spaces. The park is home to an Italian garden, a rose garden, and a sensory garden, each offering their unique charm and appeal.
The Italian garden, situated near the main entrance, boasts a beautiful sunken garden with a central fountain, surrounded by manicured lawns and elegant flowerbeds. The rose garden, located on the southern side of the park, is a fragrant and colourful haven, showcasing a wide variety of rose species, including hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbers. The sensory garden, designed to stimulate the senses through the use of colourful and fragrant plants, is a wonderful space for both children and adults to explore and enjoy.
Boating Lake and Riverside Walks
One of the most popular attractions within Thompson Park is the picturesque boating lake. This large, serpentine-shaped lake offers a delightful setting for a leisurely boat ride or a relaxing stroll along the water’s edge. Rowing boats and canoes are available for hire during the summer months, providing an enjoyable activity for the whole family.
Adjacent to the boating lake is the River Brun, which meanders peacefully through the park. A series of well-maintained footpaths and bridges crisscross the river, allowing visitors to enjoy delightful riverside walks and take in the tranquil beauty of the water and surrounding woodlands.
Children’s Play Area and Miniature Railway
Thompson Park offers a fantastic range of facilities and activities designed specifically for children. The modern, well-equipped play area, situated near the park’s Ormerod Road entrance, offers a variety of climbing frames, swings, slides, and other play equipment suitable for children of all ages. The play area is also fully accessible, ensuring that children with disabilities can enjoy the facilities alongside their peers.
Another popular attraction for children is the Thompson Park Miniature Railway, a delightful narrow-gauge railway that runs through the park. Operated by the Burnley & Pendle Miniature Railway Society, the railway is open to the public on weekends and bank holidays between April and October. A small fee is charged for rides, but it is well worth it for the excitement and joy it brings to children and adults alike.
Sports Facilities and Open Spaces
For those looking to engage in more active pursuits, Thompson Park offers a range of sports facilities, including a bowling green, tennis courts, and a large, multi-use games area. These facilities are open to the public and provide an excellent opportunity for residents to enjoy a range of recreational activities within the park’s picturesque setting.
In addition to the formal sports facilities, Thompson Park also features extensive open spaces and lawns, perfect for informal games, picnics, and simply relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the surroundings. These open spaces provide an essential resource for the local community, promoting health and well-being and fostering a sense of connection with nature.
Community Events and Activities
Thompson Park is not only a beautiful green space but also a hub of community activity. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events and activities, including outdoor theatre performances, family fun days, and guided walks. The park’s active Friends group, the Friends of Thompson Park, also organises regular volunteer-led gardening and conservation activities, providing an opportunity for local residents to play a part in maintaining and enhancing this cherished community asset.
Thompson Park is a true gem within the town of Burnley, offering a diverse range of facilities, attractions, and natural beauty that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. As a local realtor, I am always proud to showcase this fantastic park to potential homebuyers, as it truly represents the best of what Burnley has to offer.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor to the area, I encourage you to take the time to explore and enjoy the many delights of Thompson Park. With its lush gardens, tranquil waterways, and extensive range of amenities, you are sure to find something to suit your tastes and interests within this charming and historic park.