Haslam Park
Victorian parkland where woodland serenity meets family fun along Preston's waterways.
A Victorian Legacy in Modern Preston
Haslam Park stands as a particularly fine example of Victorian-influenced town park design, with many original features carefully preserved and maintained. Established as a cherished green space within the urban landscape of Preston, the park reflects the Victorian era's commitment to providing accessible recreation and natural beauty for the community. The Grade II listed gates mark the formal entrance, serving as a reminder of the park's historical significance and architectural heritage.Natural Spaces and Woodland Tranquility
The park's 40 acres encompass diverse natural environments, from mature woodland paths that wind through the landscape to open meadows perfect for relaxation. Towering trees create shaded corridors ideal for peaceful walks, while the woodland areas support a variety of plant life and wildlife habitats. These tranquil trails offer respite from urban surroundings and provide an immersive nature experience without requiring extensive hiking.The Focal Point: Pond and Wildlife
At the heart of the park lies a charming pond that serves as the central gathering point. Mallards and graceful swans glide across the water, creating a gentle focal point for observation and relaxation. The pond and its surrounding wetland areas support diverse wildlife, offering visitors opportunities for quiet contemplation and nature watching. The water feature adds both visual appeal and ecological value to the park's landscape.Recreation and Family Activities
The well-equipped children's play area near the main entrance features swings, slides, and climbing structures designed to engage younger visitors. Beyond the playground, the park offers tennis courts and a bowling green for active recreation. Wide open spaces throughout the park are perfect for running, games, and informal sports. Families frequently bring picnics to enjoy on the grass, taking advantage of the expansive lawns and picnic-friendly atmosphere.Sensory Gardens and Horticultural Features
The park includes dedicated sensory gardens designed to engage multiple senses and provide therapeutic experiences. These carefully curated spaces complement the natural woodland areas and contribute to the park's role as a multi-sensory destination. On-site nursery facilities reflect the park's commitment to horticulture and landscape management.Gateway to Extended Adventures
Haslam Park's location at the edge of the Guild Wheel canal network opens opportunities for extended cycling and walking adventures. Visitors can seamlessly transition from the park's intimate woodland paths to the broader canal-side routes, making the park an ideal starting point for longer recreational journeys. The canal access adds another dimension to the park's appeal for active visitors seeking varied terrain and scenery.Local tips
- Pack a picnic and enjoy meals on the open lawns; free parking is available, making this an affordable family outing.
- Note that toilet facilities are not available on-site; plan accordingly and use facilities in Preston town centre before visiting.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife watching at the pond; the mallards and swans are most active during early morning and late afternoon.
- Dogs are welcome in designated areas; check current leash requirements and explore the park's dog-friendly zones.
- Visit Thursday to Saturday evenings when the Hidden Terrace operates, offering refreshments including coffee and drinks.
A brief summary to Haslam Park
- Bristow Ave, Preston, Ashton-on-Ribble, PR2 1JE, GB
- +441772906471
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
-
Car
Free on-site car park with ample spaces available. From Preston city centre, follow signs toward Ashton-on-Ribble; the park entrance is on Bristow Avenue. Journey time from Preston town centre approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is unrestricted and available throughout the day.
-
Bus
Local bus services operate from Preston town centre to stops near Haslam Park. Journey time approximately 15–20 minutes from the city centre. Services run regularly throughout the day; check local timetables for current schedules. Buses serve the Ashton-on-Ribble area with stops within walking distance of the park entrance.
-
Walking
From Preston town centre, the walk to Haslam Park takes approximately 25–35 minutes depending on your starting point. The route follows mainly flat, paved urban streets through residential areas before reaching the park. Terrain is accessible for most fitness levels, though the walk is moderate in distance.
-
Cycling
Haslam Park is accessible via the Guild Wheel cycle network, which connects directly to the park. From Preston town centre, cycling via the canal towpath takes approximately 15–20 minutes. The route is relatively flat and follows dedicated cycle paths and canal-side routes. Bike racks are available at the park entrance.
