History and improvements to Central Parks

The historic parks are 21 hectares in size and are listed Grade II on English Heritage's Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. There are five parks making up Central Parks – all established between 1854 and 1866 on ancient fields know as Lammas Lands. Central Parks are also known as West (Watts) Park, East (Andrews) Park, Palmerston Park, Houndwell Park and Hoglands Park. You can find out more about the management and history of the Parks in the Management Plan.

In 2001 Central Parks underwent a £4.5m restoration project assisted by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project restored historic features in a contemporary style and introduced new landscaping and artwork. The restoration has met public demand for improvements but is also continuing to celebrate the history of these much loved parks. The parks also contain 8 listed monuments.