Stunning fairytale park with zoos, cafés and fireworks

Christopher Megrath

6 July 2024 at 4:30 am·2-min read

Stunning view of Ashton Memorial — -Credit: (Image: Lancs Live)

Williamson Park is a stunning 54-acre expanse of luscious greenery, breathtaking views and plenty to keep all ages entertained

Located in the heart of Lancaster, accessible from either junction 33 or 34 of the M6, Williamson Park offers unrivalled views of Fylde Coast and the Lake District.

The centrepiece of the magnificent area is the Ashton Memorial, sitting at around 150 feet tall and dominating the Lancaster skyline. The first-floor outdoor viewing gallery provides views of the surrounding countryside and out across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland fells and mountains.

Externally, the dome is made of copper. The main construction material is Portland stone although the steps are made of Cornish granite. The Ashton Memorial is frequently booked for wedding ceremonies but there's a zipline for kids at the lower play area beneath the building.

Stunning view out across Lancaster towards the Lake District from Ashton Memorial -Credit:Lancs Live

The park comes alive during the warmer months, holding a slew of festivals, fireworks displays and family events. Light up Lancaster is a free family festival of light and art, taking place annually at the start of November. There are also regular pram fitness walks and Tai Chi classes for fitness fanatics.

Elsewhere in the park is the Edwardian Palm House - a rainforest home to butterflies, Koi carp, tortoises, quails and chameleons. Whatever the weather you can be sure of a warm welcome in this oasis of trees, vines, a waterfall and tropical plants. Guests can walk among some of the world's most beautiful species, including swallowtails and cleverly camouflaged owl butterflies.

Fountain and lake at the beautiful Williamson Park -Credit:Lancs Live

There's even a mini zoo on-site housing meerkats and marmosets as well as rabbits, frogs, lizards and guinea pigs. During weekends and half term, kids can get up close and personal with the animals.

The parkland can be explored by woodland walkways and broad avenues of trees, shrubs and flowers. Venture into Fenham Carr and explore mature and varied woodland providing habitats for birds, bats, invertebrates and wildflowers.

After you've explored the woods, you can put your feet up at the Pavilion café and shop to grab an ice cream or coffee.

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