Hesketh Park: Southport’s Victorian Green Gem
A charming Victorian park in Southport featuring a lake, historic observatory, family amenities, and tranquil natural beauty open daily from dawn to dusk.
Hesketh Park is a beautifully maintained Victorian park in Southport, England, offering a tranquil escape with its lake, colourful flower beds, wooded areas, and an historic observatory. Open daily from dawn to dusk, it features family-friendly amenities including a children’s play area, crazy golf, and a café. The park is a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking peaceful walks amid natural beauty and heritage.
A brief summary to Hesketh Park
- 17 Park Cres, Brentwood Ct, Southport, PR9 9JN, GB
- +447375951141
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- 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
Local tips
- Visit the historic astronomical observatory during public open days for a unique educational experience.
- Enjoy a relaxing walk around the lake to spot swans, ducks, and other local wildlife.
- Try the crazy golf course, especially popular in the summer months for family fun.
- Stop by the café for a variety of teas, ice creams, and cakes to refresh during your visit.
- Explore the Kitchen Garden facility on Saturdays to learn about local horticulture and sustainable gardening.
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 Southport town centre to stops near Hesketh Park; journey times range from 10 to 20 minutes with frequent daily service. Tickets cost approximately £2–£4. Note that buses may be less frequent in the evenings and on Sundays.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Southport town centre to Hesketh Park typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £6–£10. Taxis offer flexible drop-off close to the park entrance.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Southport, a walk to Hesketh Park takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes along mostly flat, paved paths suitable for most abilities. This option is free and allows you to enjoy the town’s streetscape en route.
Hesketh 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 Hesketh Park
A Victorian Legacy in Southport
Hesketh Park stands as a testament to Victorian landscape design, nestled just north of Southport’s town centre. Established in the 19th century, it reflects the era’s passion for public green spaces that blend natural beauty with recreational facilities. The park’s layout includes winding paths, mature trees, and carefully curated flower beds that burst with seasonal colour, offering a serene environment for visitors of all ages.Natural Features and Wildlife
At the heart of Hesketh Park lies a peaceful lake, home to swans, ducks, geese, and moorhens, attracting birdwatchers and photographers alike. The surrounding wooded banks and open lawns provide varied habitats supporting local wildlife. The park’s natural charm is enhanced by its quiet corners and open spaces, inviting visitors to relax, picnic, or enjoy mindful moments in a tranquil setting.Recreational Attractions for All Ages
Hesketh Park caters to families and leisure seekers with its children’s play area and a popular crazy golf course, especially lively during warmer months. The friendly café offers a range of refreshments, including teas, ice creams, and cakes, making it a welcoming spot for a casual break. The park’s design encourages leisurely strolls, dog walking, and informal social gatherings, making it a community hub for locals and tourists.The Historic Observatory
One of the park’s unique features is its historic astronomical observatory, a rare Victorian relic that periodically opens to the public. This observatory connects visitors to Southport’s scientific heritage and offers educational opportunities, especially during public open days. It adds a distinctive cultural layer to the park’s natural and recreational appeal.Community and Events
Hesketh Park is more than just a green space; it is a vibrant community asset hosting events such as stargazing days and seasonal activities. The recently opened Kitchen Garden facility further enriches the park’s offerings, promoting local horticulture and sustainable gardening practices. These initiatives foster community engagement and enhance the park’s role as a living, evolving space.Accessibility and Atmosphere
Open daily from dawn to dusk with free entry, Hesketh Park is easily accessible and welcoming to all visitors. Its peaceful atmosphere, combined with lively areas for play and socialising, creates a balanced environment suitable for relaxation and recreation. Whether visiting solo, as a couple, or with family, the park provides a scenic retreat with historical charm and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Blackpool Opera House
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Visit Blackpool
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Blackpool Illuminations
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Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours (Tower)
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Blackpool Town Hall
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North Pier
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Black pool
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Blackpool War Memorial
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Everything Blackpool
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Lostock Hall Henge
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Avenham and Miller Park
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Preston Cenotaph
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Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Cuerden Valley Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Southport Pleasureland
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Family fun and seaside thrills await at Adventure Coast Southport, where four themed lands bring joy to all ages along the beautiful Marine Drive.
Lytham Windmill
9.0 km
Historic 1805 tower mill on Lytham Green offering rich heritage, coastal views, and a free museum experience.
West Lancashire Light Railway
10.9 km
Experience the charm of vintage steam trains and industrial heritage on a scenic woodland railway in Lancashire.
Gorse Hill Nature Reserve
11.5 km
Discover Gorse Hill Nature Reserve, a vibrant wildlife haven in Aughton offering serene woodlands, wildflower meadows, and community-led conservation.
National Trust - Rufford Old Hall
11.6 km
Explore the enchanting Tudor manor and Victorian gardens of Rufford Old Hall, a historic Lancashire treasure rich in heritage and natural beauty.
Lightworks
13.4 km
Discover the creative heart of Blackpool Illuminations at Lightworks, where tradition meets innovation in a dazzling celebration of light.
sō-lō Restaurant
13.7 km
Discover sō-lō Restaurant in Aughton: Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with global influences in a relaxed, elegant setting.
Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms
14.3 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining and luxury rooms in a historic Lancashire country house, blending seasonal British cuisine with elegant rural charm.
Wild Discovery
14.6 km
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Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve
14.7 km
A tranquil wetland oasis in Preston, blending rich industrial heritage with vibrant wildlife and accessible nature trails.
Mirror Ball
14.9 km
A giant rotating mirror ball on Blackpool’s South Promenade, dazzling by day and glowing with a vibrant light show by night.
Steeplechase
15.4 km
Experience the thrilling horse-racing coaster that blends vintage charm with adrenaline at Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s iconic Steeplechase.
Revolution
15.4 km
Experience Europe's first looping launched coaster with thrilling forward and backward loops at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
The Big One
15.4 km
Britain's most iconic hypercoaster: 235 feet of pure adrenaline and unforgettable views.
Nickelodeon Land
15.5 km
A vibrant Nickelodeon-themed family playground within Blackpool's iconic seaside amusement park, bursting with colorful rides and character fun.
Essential places to dine
The Dolphin
1.7 km
Authentic British fish and chips with crispy batter, generous portions, and nostalgic seaside charm.
Rigby's Farmhouse
11.8 km
Cozy farmhouse dining in Preston serving hearty British classics and an exceptional gin selection for family and friends.
Lang's Restaurant
13.8 km
Experience contemporary English and international cuisine in a stylish Preston setting with exceptional wines and warm hospitality.
Le Sorelle Italian Restaurant and Takeaway
14.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality combine at Le Sorelle, Blackpool’s cozy spot for handcrafted pasta, pizza, and family-friendly dining.
The Barn at Moor Hall
14.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred Modern British cuisine at The Barn at Moor Hall, where seasonal local produce meets elegant, relaxed dining in beautiful Lancashire surroundings.
Ambrosini's
14.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Ambrosini's, Blackpool’s cherished Sicilian restaurant with generous portions and cozy charm.
Italio
14.8 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in Blackpool with warm hospitality and expertly crafted pizzas at Italio.
TOPO
14.8 km
Cozy tapas and European kitchen in Blackpool delivering flavorful dishes with friendly service and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
White Tower Restaurant
15.9 km
Elegant British dining with stunning sea views on Blackpool’s iconic promenade, perfect for all tastes and occasions.
Eat Italian
16.2 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Blackpool serving authentic, flavorful dishes with warm hospitality and excellent value.
The Eating Inn
16.3 km
Family-run steakhouse on Blackpool’s South Shore serving prime aged British beef in a cozy, historic setting with warm hospitality.
Casa Franco
16.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with seaside charm on Blackpool’s Promenade, perfect for families and food lovers seeking fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
LITES DINER On The Prom
16.7 km
Classic comfort food and warm hospitality await at Lites Diner, a cozy seaside spot on Blackpool’s vibrant promenade.
The Buccaneer
18.1 km
Lively British pub dining with family-friendly classics and a playful pirate theme inside Blackpool’s Coral Island arcade.
Amaro
18.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors served generously in a stylish, welcoming setting near Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The FAIR Trade Store
2.5 km
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Blackpool Retail Park
14.0 km
A modern mixed-use retail and leisure park in Cork offering diverse shopping, dining, cinema, and free parking in a vibrant urban setting.
The Secret Closet
14.1 km
Curated Italian, Danish & Portuguese fashion with a commitment to responsible, sustainable retail.
La Shack Costume Fashion Jewellery and Gifts
14.2 km
Discover unique fashion jewellery and gifts at La Shack in Blackpool, the perfect stop for memorable shopping experiences.
Gold Boutique
14.9 km
Discover the latest womenswear trends and personalized style at Gold Boutique, Blackpool’s charming fashion destination.
Cedar Farm
15.2 km
Discover Cedar Farm: Lancashire’s charming blend of boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and family-friendly farm fun in a scenic rural setting.
ICON Shop
15.5 km
Discover unique Blackpool souvenirs and ride-themed gifts at the vibrant ICON Shop within Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Nick Shop
15.5 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Nick Shop, your go-to souvenir store on Blackpool's Ocean Boulevard.
Mood Gifts & Home
15.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
Kiss Me Quick
15.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Kiss Me Quick, the must-visit gift shop in Blackpool's vibrant Ocean Boulevard.
Fantastic Gifts
16.1 km
Discover an eclectic mix of gifts, collectibles, and airsoft supplies with friendly service on Blackpool’s lively Promenade.
The Range
16.2 km
Explore Blackpool’s expansive home and lifestyle store offering unbeatable variety, pet-friendly shopping, and great value all under one roof.
I Collectables
16.3 km
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North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
17.7 km
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Golden Mile Gifts & Souvenirs
17.7 km
Affordable and friendly seaside souvenir shop offering classic Blackpool gifts along the vibrant Golden Mile Promenade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Velvet Coaster - JD Wetherspoon
16.0 km
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The Gin House
16.1 km
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The Bridge
17.0 km
A lively Blackpool bar blending traditional pub charm with vibrant cabaret and karaoke nights for fun-filled evenings.
THE HAPPY SCOTS BAR
17.3 km
A lively Blackpool karaoke bar with cheap drinks, friendly faces, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ma Kelly’s
17.6 km
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Spyglass Bar
18.1 km
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Albert's Ale Micropub & Wine Bar
18.2 km
Cozy cellar micropub in Blackpool offering quality real ales, ciders, and wines in a friendly, dog-friendly atmosphere at great prices.
The Albert & The Lion - JD Wetherspoon
18.2 km
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The Number Three Cocktail Bar Function Room
18.3 km
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Russ Brown's House Of Secrets
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Scruffy Murphys
18.4 km
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Le Plonk Wine Bar
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Dirty Blondes
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Revolution Blackpool
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Brannigans
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Banff
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The Tache Rock Club
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Hush Nightclub
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Trilogy Nightclub
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Popworld - Blackpool
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Club underground
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Sanuk Nightclub
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Funny Girls
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Park Hall Nightclub
19.4 km
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Switch Nightclub
22.1 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Preston
22.2 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
The Warehouse
22.3 km
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Pure Nightclub
26.4 km
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Ibiza Nightclub
26.6 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Elysium Nightclub
27.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly