The Chestnut Walk is the magnificent avenue of more than 100 trees through Clarence Park, originally planted in the 1890s. Some of the old Horse Chestnut trees in this avenue are in decline and several have already had to be removed after being killed off by disease, further losses are anticipated over the next few years. The Friends of CHaT Parks would like to replace the losses with a more disease- resistant variety of Horse Chestnut which will look almost the same. Further measures can also be taken to improve the health of the remaining trees so Chestnut walk could continue into the next century.
Park Facilities and Attractions
Children’s Play Area
There is a large children’s play area in Thornes Park with slides, climbing frames, swings and see-saws for children to enjoy. There is also a smaller area for under 5s to enjoy play designed for them with small slides and rocking figures. [Read more…] about Children’s Play Area
Conservatory
Inside the Rose Garden belonging to Thornes House is a large glass conservatory which featured an array of plants, separated into three climactic zones – tropical, temperate and desert. The fifty year old building was closed in 2012 with structural problems but the Friends of Clarence, Holmfield and Thornes Parks (CHaT) group received a grant from Waste Recycling Environmental (WREN) to restore the building and work began in late 2014. The Conservatory is currently open during weekdays.
Drinking Fountain
The drinking fountain in Clarence Park was erected in 1893 as a memorial to Major Joseph Barker. Major Barker lived in Holmfield House and was a local magistrate and owner of the Thornes Mill, a worsted mill. After his death in 1892, the workpeople of the mill subscribed to the fountain which is built in granite and sandstone. Both the drinking fountain and the water trough are Grade II listed.
WATER TROUGH
Near to the drinking fountain is a raised red granite water trough, [Read more…] about Drinking Fountain
Flower Gardens
The formal flower beds are a well-known and well-loved feature of the Park. They have provided the backdrop to many a collection of wedding photographs and other memorable occasions.
The spring and summer bedding displays were a good advertisement for the horticultural skills and expertise of the Council and won awards.
The provision of the formal beds was taken over by the Friends Group [Read more…] about Flower Gardens
