Western Park, Leicester, England

1089: The Park was part of Leicester Forest and was mentioned in the Domesday book of 1089. It was an important game reserve for the Earls of Leicester. The forest was an essential source of timber for the inhabitants of Leicester both to build houses and business premises, as well as a source of fuel. An oak tree, affectionately known as ‘Old Major’ dates from this period.

1500 to 1533: The forest was depleted of trees and the land enclosed.

1868 to 1899: Leicester Corporation purchased the land for £30,000 from the Trustees of Sir John Mellor, an important landowner in New Parks and Westcotes. This was to create a park for the people of the West End of Leicester

1899: The Park was opened as a public open space

bandstand

Late Victorian bandstand

building

The Eco House: this show house is situated within the park and demonstrates ways of creating a more environmentally-friendly home.

gate

Ornamental entrance gates to park. These replaced the original wooden gates.