Moor Park

Moor Park is one of the largest and oldest public parks in Preston, Lancashire, in north-west England. It covers roughly 40 hectares on the northern side of the city and has long been a place for walks, sport and big open-air events.

How did Moor Park come about?

The land began as common pasture, an open space on the edge of town for centuries. The park was laid out in the 1830s and reworked and improved in the 1860s. It kept the layout typical of Victorian public parks: tree-lined paths, open grass and wooded belts. Today it is listed on the national Register of Parks and Gardens at Grade II*, a mark of high historic value.

The ground also has a military past. In 1648, during the Second English Civil War, the Battle of Preston was fought in the area, and the surroundings of the present park are tied to those events.

What is there to see?

• Jeremiah Horrocks Observatory - opened in 1927 on the day of a total solar eclipse visible in Britain. Preston Council built it. It is now run by the University of Central Lancashire and doubles as a weather station. It is named after the Lancashire astronomer who was the first to predict and observe a transit of Venus across the Sun.
• Grotto and ornamental garden - a quiet corner for anyone who wants somewhere less busy.
• Cafe and public toilets - handy for a longer visit.
• Car park - easy access by car.

Sport and recreation

Moor Park is above all an active park. It has eight football pitches that can be booked through the council, four bowling greens, basketball courts, two multi-use games areas, an Adizone outdoor gym and a skatepark. Two children's play areas make it a good choice for families.

Sport here dates back to the 1860s, when a cricket team that later grew into Preston North End rented a pitch. Open-air baths opened in 1905 and were later demolished.

Events and awards

The park regularly hosts outdoor events. Radio 1's Big Weekend took place here in 2007, and Radio 2 in the Park in 2024. Moor Park also holds a Green Flag Award, given to well-managed green spaces.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Moor Park free? Yes, it is a public park. Pitch bookings and some ticketed events may cost extra.

Where is Moor Park? North of Preston city centre, in Lancashire, England.

Is there anything for children? Yes. There are two play areas, plus a skatepark and sports courts.

Can I visit the observatory? The university runs it, so check its website for visiting dates before you go.

Are there a cafe and parking? Yes, the park has a cafe, public toilets and a car park.

Who is it best for? Families, runners, football fans, lovers of historic parks and anyone interested in astronomy.