Park's new lease of life to be celebrated with weekend of events

More than a walk in the park will be on offer to families as they discover the delights of a £3million revamp of a city's 'hidden gem.'
Children from Framwellgate Primary with Liz Million and their finished guide.Children from Framwellgate Primary with Liz Million and their finished guide.
Children from Framwellgate Primary with Liz Million and their finished guide.

Wharton Park was founded in 1858 and hosted the first ever Durham Miners’ Gala in August 1871, offering stunning views of the cathedral and a haven away from its busy streets.

Now a new chapter is set to begin, as the overhaul of the park, which lies between North Road and Framwelgate Peth, is unveiled this weekend.

Renovation of Durham's Wharton ParkRenovation of Durham's Wharton Park
Renovation of Durham's Wharton Park
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Circus performers, artists, musicians and sports coaches are preparing to welcome thousands of visitors to a weekend of events.

Guests will be able to discover its miniature car track, call into the cafe play on the putting green, take a look around the brand new heritage centre, playgrounds and fitness areas.

Councillor Neil Foster, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, arts and culture, said: “Wharton Park is one of Durham’s hidden gems and it is fantastic to see it rejuvenated and ready to welcome visitors to the city.

“For locals the park provides important green space and recreational opportunities, while with improved access and exciting new additions like the heritage centre, I hope it will be another great string in what is already a magnificent tourism bow, encouraging more and more people to come to the county.”

Park of the new play area in Wharton ParkPark of the new play area in Wharton Park
Park of the new play area in Wharton Park
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The restoration was carried out by the council, which put in £600,000 on top of £2.4million in funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund.

On each day of the celebration re-opening weekend, between 11am and 3pm, there will be live performances, wandering storytellers, free arts and crafts, coached sports sessions, outdoor gym equipment classes and circus workshops.

Parking at the site at the weekend will be restricted to blue badge holders only, with visitors urged to use Durham’s Park and Ride on the Saturday and public transport on the Sunday.

If arriving by foot from the city centre helpers will be on hand to advise on routes into the park as access via Framwellgate Peth is very steep and an alternative route, via North Road, may be more suitable for some people.

Schoolchildren make a visit during a preview event.Schoolchildren make a visit during a preview event.
Schoolchildren make a visit during a preview event.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A children’s guide has been written for young visitors to the park with the help of Framwellgate Primary School, who worked with artist Liz Million to complete the booklet.

Liz held sessions where the pupils helped her design images for the guide, which tells the story of the park, told through the eyes of children.

The booklet is left black and white for children to colour in.

For more information about Wharton Park visit www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark