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Victoria Park Info

Park Way, Newbury RG14 1DJ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
[email protected]

Best PlaceJuice Reviews

Dank

Victoria Park is the ‘Jewel in their Crown’ and brings calming and invigorating green space to Newbury town centre.It is professionally managed and maintained by Managed by Newbury Town Council.

Victoria Park is next to the Kennet and Avon Canal and across the road from Parkway Shopping on one side and A339 road on the other.

Parking is available at the Wharf Car Park across the canal bridge.

Up until the 1930s the park was common land, which included the right to graze cattle.Originally Victoria Park was called The Marsh, however by the turn of the 20th century the name Victoria Park had arisen. This is likely due to the Queen's popularity and the fact that many public celebrations, such as the Queen's jubilee were held in the park.

The park has an elegant Statue of Queen Victoria and four lions in Victoria Park.The statue of her was originally placed in the Market Place in 1903, subsequently moved to Greenham House in 1933 and then to Victoria Park 1966.The Terracotta statue of Queen Victoria with four lying lions was funded by George Sanger (1825-1911), a Newbury born circus owner, and designed by Arthur E. Pearce. It was unveiled on 24 July 1903 in the Market Place.

Another sculpture in the park is the Symphony of the Trees is a 2.5m x 1m x 1m Bronze, sandstone, aluminium and iron Sculpture by Kate Robinson Symphony of the Trees.It was commissioned by

The Corn Exchange

Newbury, in 2007.

At present it is seen as a metal tree with so many locks dangling on it.

It was designed to raise awareness of, and celebrate, children within the autistic spectrum.

Children and staff from three Berkshire schools - Brookfields School, Castle School, and Prior's Court School were involved.There used to be a child standing in front of the tree holding abell and a singing bowl. The bell was an open 'giving' shape and the singing bowl was a 'receiving' shape. This was to signify the interplay of giving and receiving in all forms.Sadly, the bronze figure was subsequently stolen. Discussions are underway to recast and re-site the sculpture in a new location.

Victoria Park is host annually to a number of events and Brass & Silver Bands play throughout the summer on the traditional Bandstand.

There are two giant helter-skelter slides, an obstacle course, swings for toddlers and older children, zip wire, see-saw, roundabout, small climbing frame and slide and more. There is plenty of open green space plus a boating pond and large skate park. People sail their remote controlled model boats in the pond which is a treat to see. The Park features a children’s splash park, play areas suitable for toddlers and older children, tennis courts, a skatepark, boating pond, outdoor gym equipment, floral displays, a community cafe and is home to Newbury Bowling Club.The splash pad opens from May. The tennis courts are available on booking for a fees.

The latest addition to the park is a mini 18 holes golf court. It is a source of enjoyment to visitors of all ages alike.

My humble suggestion for the park is in favor of musical fountains at the circular boating pond. It shall certainly become a major evening tourist attraction.

Great place for family and kids enjoy a lot. Many town events take place here. Also has tennis court, miniature golf course, bandstand, many playsets for children. Great place for picnic or a playdate.

Very Good children's playground, great for toddlers upwards. Sandpit has had new sand added recently, the splash Park is open, refreshment kiosk nearby and boating, canoes and pedalos available on the pond. Easy place for picnics and to meet friends.

New for spring 2022 is the crazy golf course by the tennis courts!

It seems Victoria Park is continually improving year after year. The children's play area is quite well provisioned, from infant swings and slides across to a large climbing frame with two tube slides for older children. A large skate park is also on the north boundary of the park for skateboarding, scooters, bikes, etc.

New mini-golf is good fun in nice weather, and when open, the cafe often sells tickets for pedal boats to be taken out on the small pond in the middle of the park.

Generally well kept and tidy, and the major paths are quite well lit at night.

Fajne miejsce do spacerowania i do zabaw dla dzieci.Dzieciaki mialy frajde z ogladania kaczek i łabedzi plywajacych w rzece.Sama miejscowosc jest bardzo urokliwa i klimatyczna.

The biggest, best and most looked after park of the town!

3 tennis courts, pond, standing band, lawn bowls club, scatepark, Queen Victoria statue, summer canteen, Kennet & Avon canal, by Parkway mall with plenty of lovely shops - what else can you ask from a park?

The perfect park!

So beautiful, with an opportunity to feed ducks and watch the amazing scenery. Located in the heart of the city centre, it's an amazing place to relax after a long day of shopping. The views are spectacular and I would totally visit again.

Amenities

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Amenities

Good for kids

Quick Facts About Victoria Park

Victoria Park has several strengths that make it an attractive and enjoyable place for visitors. Firstly, it is professionally managed and maintained by Newbury Town Council. This ensures that the park is well cared for and in good condition, providing a pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy. The park's location is also a strength, as it is situated next to the Kennet and Avon Canal and across the road from Parkway Shopping. This proximity to other amenities makes it convenient for visitors to access the park and enjoy its green space.

The park also has a rich history, adding to its appeal. It was once common land and had the right to graze cattle. Over time, it has undergone various name changes, eventually settling on Victoria Park to honor Queen Victoria and her popular public celebrations that took place there. The park's elegant Statue of Queen Victoria and four lions add a touch of grandeur and historical significance to the park. The statue was funded by a local circus owner and designed by a renowned artist, further enhancing its cultural value.

In addition to its history, Victoria Park offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. There are play areas suitable for children of different ages, including swings, slides, an obstacle course, and a zip line. A boating pond allows visitors to sail remote-controlled model boats, providing a unique and entertaining experience. The park also features tennis courts, a skatepark, and an outdoor gym, catering to sports enthusiasts. The recent addition of a mini-golf course adds another fun activity for visitors of all ages.

The park's annual events, such as brass and silver band performances on the bandstand, create a vibrant atmosphere and provide entertainment for visitors. The park is also a popular location for town events, further contributing to its community appeal. The presence of a community cafe enhances the park's social aspect, offering a place to relax and enjoy refreshments.

One notable feature of Victoria Park is the Symphony of the Trees sculpture. Although the bronze figure was unfortunately stolen, plans are underway to recast and re-site the sculpture in a new location. This artwork was originally commissioned to raise awareness and celebrate children within the autistic spectrum, demonstrating the park's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.

Despite its many strengths, Victoria Park is not without its weaknesses. One comment mentions that the bronze figure of the Symphony of the Trees sculpture was stolen. While efforts are being made to replace it, the theft highlights the need for enhanced security measures in the park to protect its valuable assets.

Another comment suggests the addition of musical fountains at the circular boating pond, which could become a major evening tourist attraction. While this idea may be appealing, it is important to consider the practicality and feasibility of such a project, including factors like cost, maintenance, and potential environmental impacts.

Additionally, one comment mentions that the sandpit in the children's playground has recently been refilled with new sand. While this is positive in terms of upkeep, it also indicates that the park may require regular maintenance to ensure all facilities are in good condition. Adequate maintenance is crucial in maintaining the park's attractiveness and usability, as neglected or poorly maintained areas can deter visitors.

Overall, Victoria Park's strengths, such as its well-managed and maintained environment, historical significance, diverse range of recreational activities, and community-focused events, make it a popular and enjoyable destination for visitors. However, it is essential to address and overcome weaknesses, such as the recent theft and the need for consistent maintenance, to ensure the park remains a cherished and inviting space for all.