Marsden Park: Historic Green Oasis in Nelson
Explore Marsden Park’s rich Tudor heritage, scenic gardens, and vibrant community spaces in the heart of Nelson, Lancashire.
Marsden Park is the largest public park in Pendle, located in Nelson, Lancashire. It offers a rich blend of history and nature with features like the Tudor-era Marsden Old Hall, ornamental ponds, woodland walks, sports facilities, and themed gardens including a sensory garden and the Lady’s Garden. The park combines recreational amenities with heritage landmarks, making it a vibrant community space for relaxation, play, and cultural appreciation.
A brief summary to Marsden Park
- Walton Ln, Nelson, BB9 8BW, GB
- +441282616009
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Tudor Marsden Old Hall to appreciate its historic architecture and restored interiors.
- Enjoy the sensory garden with tactile paths, ideal for visitors with limited mobility.
- Bring children to the accessible playground with equipment suitable for various ages and abilities.
- Look for the poetic sundial on the coach house’s north wall, a unique historical feature.
- Join a Friends Group volunteer day to contribute to the park’s upkeep and community spirit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Nelson town center to Walton Lane, with journey times around 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evening services. A single fare costs approximately £2 to £3.
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Car
Driving to Marsden Park is straightforward via the M65 motorway, exit 12 towards Nelson. The park offers free car parking near Marsden Old Hall on Walton Lane. Travel time from central Nelson is about 5 to 10 minutes. Parking availability may vary during weekends and events.
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Walking
From Nelson town center, walking to Marsden Park takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. Paths are accessible but may be less suitable for those with limited mobility over longer distances.
Marsden Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Marsden Park
A Living Heritage of Marsden Old Hall
Marsden Park is anchored by Marsden Old Hall, a historic Tudor building dating back to the mid-16th century. Originally built between 1555 and 1563 by Richard Walton of Barkerhouse, the hall served as the family seat of the Waltons, prominent local landowners. Although parts of the hall fell into disrepair and extensions were lost, the Tudor section remains beautifully restored with Heritage Lottery Fund support. The hall’s cellars, once used for food and wine storage, still survive, offering a glimpse into the estate’s past grandeur.Gardens and Natural Features
The park is notable for its diverse gardens, including a circular garden, a Lady’s Garden with intriguing bricked-up doorways once thought to be secret passages, and a sensory garden designed with tactile paths to engage visitors with low mobility. Ornamental ponds and a marsh area add to the scenic beauty, while woodland walks invite exploration through peaceful natural surroundings. A unique feature is the imitation Roman Bath House, originally a summerhouse and boiler house, reflecting the estate’s historical leisure culture.Recreational Facilities and Community Spirit
Marsden Park offers extensive recreational amenities such as five tennis courts, two bowling greens, and a children’s playground featuring 18 pieces of equipment, including accessible options for children with disabilities. A new multi-use games area (MUGA) and refurbished tennis courts are planned to enhance sports opportunities. The active Friends Group plays a vital role in maintaining the park’s quality through volunteer and conservation days, fostering a strong community connection.Historical Curiosities and Sundials
Among the park’s charming curiosities is a sundial on the north wall of the coach house inscribed with a poetic guiding message. The coach house itself was integral to the estate, housing horses and coaches below, with living quarters above for the coachman’s family. These elements enrich the park’s narrative, blending functional history with aesthetic appeal.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Paths throughout Marsden Park are designed to accommodate visitors with limited mobility, including wheelchair-friendly routes and sensory garden features. The playground includes a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and dogs are restricted from play areas to ensure safety and cleanliness. The park’s open hours from midday to midnight provide ample opportunity for daytime and evening visits.Integration with Nelson’s Urban Landscape
Situated on Walton Lane in Nelson, Marsden Park serves as a green refuge within the town’s urban fabric. It complements other local parks, offering residents and visitors a historic and natural retreat. Its location and facilities make it a key cultural and recreational landmark in Lancashire’s Pendle district.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lumb Viaduct
20.3 km
Discover the historic Victorian Lumb Viaduct, a stunning railway landmark offering scenic walks and cycling across Lancashire’s Rossendale Valley.
Peel Tower
23.9 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Wayoh Reservoir
25.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Sussex Avenue
28.1 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Robert Peel Statue
28.2 km
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Bradford City Hall
29.1 km
A majestic Victorian landmark in Bradford, blending stunning Venetian Gothic architecture with rich civic history and vibrant cultural life.
Bradford Cathedral
29.4 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Bradford Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in the heart of Bradford.
National Trust - Yorkshire Dales
29.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Yorkshire Dales National Trust, a must-visit nature reserve in England's stunning countryside.
Brockholes
29.7 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Brockholes Nature Reserve, a vibrant ecosystem perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure.
Bleasdale Circle
30.9 km
A Bronze Age timber circle and burial mound where ancient rituals echoed across the Bowland fells.
Radcliffe Tower
31.6 km
Medieval fortress and Grade I listed monument preserving centuries of Lancashire's feudal heritage
Smithills Hall
31.6 km
Discover the rich history and enchanting beauty of Smithills Hall, a historic gem in Bolton, England, perfect for families and history lovers alike.
Tonge Hall
32.3 km
Discover Tonge Hall, a rare Elizabethan timber-framed manor in Middleton, blending Tudor grandeur with poignant history and ongoing restoration.
Yorkshire Wartime Experience
32.5 km
Explore the rich narratives of World War II at the Yorkshire Wartime Experience, a captivating venue in Bradford that brings history to life.
Calverley Old Hall
33.1 km
Discover the historic charm of Calverley Old Hall, a stunning landmark blending medieval architecture with serene gardens, perfect for history lovers and travelers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pendle Heritage Centre
2.2 km
Discover Lancashire’s heritage through historic architecture, witch trials lore, tranquil gardens, and local culture at Pendle Heritage Centre.
Barrowford Memorial Park
2.2 km
A peaceful memorial park in Nelson blending natural beauty, historic remembrance, and family-friendly recreation.
Alkincoats Park
2.6 km
Discover Alkincoats Park, Colne’s historic and scenic green space offering gardens, sports, and family-friendly fun across 38 acres.
Queen Street Mill Textile Museum
3.3 km
Explore the world’s last steam-powered weaving mill and step back into Lancashire’s rich cotton industry heritage at Queen Street Mill Textile Museum.
Extwistle Hall
4.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Extwistle Hall, a 16th-century Tudor manor perched on Lancashire’s scenic moorland.
Blacko Tower
4.4 km
A Victorian folly crowning Blacko Hill, Blacko Tower offers sweeping Lancashire views wrapped in history and mystery.
Wycoller Country Park
5.1 km
Historic village and evocative ruins nestled in scenic Lancashire countryside, inspiring literature and offering tranquil walks.
The Atom - Panopticon
6.2 km
A futuristic pavilion framing stunning panoramic views above historic Wycoller village in the heart of Lancashire’s countryside.
Charter Walk Shopping Centre
6.5 km
East Lancashire’s inclusive shopping hub with over 85 stores, sensory-friendly facilities, and a family-focused atmosphere in the heart of Burnley.
Towneley Hall
7.6 km
Historic Towneley Hall in Burnley: centuries-old family estate turned museum with fine art, Baroque interiors, and expansive public parkland.
Pendle Hill
7.9 km
Explore Pendle Hill’s legendary landscapes, rich history, and breathtaking views in the heart of Lancashire’s countryside.
National Trust - Gawthorpe Hall
8.0 km
Discover the enchanting blend of Jacobean architecture, Victorian grandeur, and expansive woodland at Gawthorpe Hall in Lancashire.
West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and Lancashire Tri Point
9.4 km
Discover the quiet meeting place of West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and Lancashire where history and moorland landscapes converge.
Victory Park
9.4 km
Historic green space in Barnoldswick honoring WWI fallen with peaceful paths, a junior cycleway, and community spirit for all ages.
Singing Ringing Tree
9.5 km
Experience Burnley’s iconic wind-powered sculpture that sings haunting melodies while offering stunning panoramic views of the Pennines.
Essential places to dine
Bertram's Restaurant
5.9 km
Sophisticated adult-only dining with creative British cuisine, cocktails, and stunning countryside views near Burnley.
The Cellar Restaurant
9.3 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Artisan Ribble Valley
16.3 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
17.3 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
Restaurant Metamorphica
17.5 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
The Bonny Inn
20.3 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Gimbals Restaurant
23.5 km
Quirky, cozy Modern British dining with Mediterranean flair and warm, personalized service in the heart of Sowerby Bridge.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
24.3 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Angels Restaurant
24.4 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
The Lister Arms
24.9 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Malham offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and a welcoming pub atmosphere in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Secret Garden Bistro
25.1 km
A pioneering plant-based bistro in Malham offering innovative, sustainable dishes in a serene Yorkshire Dales setting.
The Box Tree Restaurant
25.7 km
A historic fine dining gem in Ilkley, blending classical French techniques with modern European flair in a charming sandstone setting.
The Old Hall Inn
27.8 km
Historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality await at The Old Hall Inn in the heart of Grassington village.
Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn
28.1 km
Experience authentic Yorkshire Dales hospitality with hearty food, local ales, and rustic charm at Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn.
Crowded House Restaurant
30.8 km
A vibrant blend of modern British dining, quirky charm, and lively bar culture in the heart of Bury.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Old Rock Home & Gifts Shop
3.6 km
A charming village boutique offering unique gifts, homewares, and clothing with warm local hospitality in Trawden, Lancashire.
Witches Galore
5.5 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Quirky Gifts
14.8 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Grove Bookshop
25.7 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Ilkley’s heart, perfect for browsing new releases, children’s books, travel guides and local events.
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
26.0 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
C&K
26.2 km
A charming independent lifestyle store and café in Settle’s Market Place, blending boutique shopping with local flavors and welcoming ambiance.
All Things Quirky 4 U
31.5 km
A charming Etsy shop in a historic Huddersfield mill, filled with vintage accessories, handmade jewellery, and quirky gifts with personality.
Uniquely Manchester Ltd
32.1 km
Explore Uniquely Manchester Ltd, where local craftsmanship meets the spirit of Manchester in an unforgettable gift shopping experience.
Market Place Shopping Centre
32.8 km
Explore the lively Market Place Shopping Centre in Bolton, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for a memorable experience.
Stump Cross Caverns
33.1 km
Explore the breathtaking underground world of Stump Cross Caverns in the Yorkshire Dales, a perfect blend of nature, education, and delicious delights.
Hidden Wardrobe - Cashmere scarves Leeds | Jewellery Shop | Gift Shop
34.4 km
Discover luxurious cashmere scarves and exquisite jewellery in Huddersfield’s historic Shambles at The Hidden Wardrobe boutique.
The Mill Shop
34.5 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
34.7 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
KENJI Preston
34.8 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
St George's Shopping Centre
34.8 km
Explore a vibrant shopping experience at St George's Shopping Centre in Preston, filled with diverse stores, eateries, and a lively atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Wine and Cocktail Bar and Thai at the Kings
14.3 km
A chic cocktail bar and authentic Thai restaurant in Clitheroe offering fresh flavors, elegant ambiance, and warm hospitality.
White Orchid Boutique Bar
15.0 km
Stylish boutique bar in Accrington offering quality drinks, cozy ambiance, and live music for a vibrant social experience.
Ribchester Arms
22.5 km
A charming Lancashire inn blending historic roots, hearty gastropub fare, and cozy comfort in the heart of Ribchester.
The Buck Inn Malham
24.8 km
A rustic, welcoming pub and inn in Malham offering hearty fare and cozy rooms amid the stunning Yorkshire Dales landscape.
Settle Working Mens Club
26.1 km
Authentic local bar in Settle offering affordable drinks, vibrant community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic market town setting.
The Stage Door
27.4 km
A cozy, rustic bar and restaurant in Longridge offering expertly crafted cocktails, stone-baked pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for relaxed and lively nights.
The Gamekeeper's Inn
28.5 km
A charming countryside inn blending rustic hospitality, comfortable stays, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Nook & Cranny Bromley Cross
29.1 km
A cozy, community-focused tap house in Bromley Cross serving quality cask ales in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Plough Grimsargh
29.2 km
A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Stags Head
31.5 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub blending traditional British fare with warm hospitality in the heart of Goosnargh village.
The Dressers Arms | Pub & Rooms
32.0 km
Charming countryside pub and cozy rooms offering hearty food, local ales, and warm hospitality in scenic Wheelton, Chorley.
Piggy Banks
33.3 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Bolton offering a great selection of ales and simple food in a cozy, welcoming setting near the train station.
Old Mill
33.4 km
A charming riverside pub in Brighouse blending rustic British tradition with scenic views and hearty cuisine.
Blitz Venue & Nightclub
34.4 km
Experience Preston’s vibrant late-night scene with live DJs, affordable drinks, and an energetic club atmosphere at Blitz Venue & Nightclub.
Hogarths
34.5 km
Historic Victorian gin palace in Preston city centre, famed for its vast gin selection, lively sports atmosphere, and vibrant community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Redroom Burnley
6.7 km
Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
14.3 km
Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
Level Nightclub
33.1 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Warehouse
34.4 km
Three floors of diverse music and vibrant nightlife in Preston’s welcoming alternative club scene.
Popworld - Preston
34.5 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Switch Nightclub
34.7 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Underground
34.9 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
39.0 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bijou Club
39.5 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Cargo
39.5 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
39.5 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Mint Lounge
39.7 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Funkademia
39.7 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Aatma
39.7 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Twenty Twenty Two
39.8 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly