Gloucester Park

Gloucester Park is an urban park of about 11 hectares close to the centre of Gloucester, in Gloucestershire, England. It is run by Gloucester City Council. It is a green space for residents and visitors who want a break from sightseeing, a game outdoors, or simply a walk through well-kept gardens.

How did the park come about?

The land grew out of the Spa Pleasure Grounds, gardens tied to a spa business from the early nineteenth century. In 1861 the city corporation bought the grounds and combined them with neighbouring fields. The park opened in 1862. The gardens were laid out by Edward Milner, a well-known Victorian landscape gardener. Some accounts give different dates for the creation and extension of the park, so treat precise dates with caution.

What is there to see?

The park lies within a conservation area and has several features of heritage value. These include a statue of Queen Anne, listed at Grade II. You will also find a bandstand, a memorial garden and an aviary. Wide, surfaced paths make for easy walking, including with a pushchair.

What can active visitors do?

Gloucester Park has proper sports facilities used by Gloucester City Winget Cricket Club and Gloucester Spa Bowling Club. There is a children's play area and an orienteering course. A parkrun takes place on Saturday mornings and is open to anyone. Across Trier Way, Baker's Field has a skate park, a multi-use games area and table tennis.

Facilities

A café operates seasonally, and there are toilets with baby changing. The park also hosts city events such as the Gloucester Summer Festival.

Getting there and where to enter

The park is off Park Road (postcode GL1 1LY). Entrances are on Spa Road, Trier Way, Montpellier and Park Road. It is a short walk from the city centre. Buses including routes 7, 9 and 63 run nearby, though check timetables before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Gloucester Park free? Yes, it is a public city park.

Is it suitable for families? Yes. There is a play area, a seasonal café, toilets with baby changing and level paths.

Can I play sport here? Yes. There are cricket and bowling facilities, an orienteering course, and a parkrun on Saturday mornings.

Is this the same as Gloucester Park in Perth? No. The name is shared by several places. This park is in the English city of Gloucester; Gloucester Park in Perth, Western Australia, is a separate venue known for harness racing.

When is the best time to visit? Late spring and summer are most convenient, when the café is open and outdoor events take place.