Hesketh Park Conservatory

Hesketh Park was designed by the renowned Victorian landscape gardener Edward Kemp in 1865 (who also designed Duke Street cemetery). A decade after it first opened, a large conservatory was erected and housed an array of rare and exotic plants. It had originally been part of Brunswick Villa on the corner of Lord Street and Manchester Road, Southport, but was bought by Southport Corporation and moved to the park in 1878. Today, the Grade II listed Conservatory still stands in the centre of the park next to the lake.

The Conservatory makes a great starting point for a tour of the park - there will be short, informal guided tours where possible.

After 140 years, the historic structure was suffering from water damage and Sefton Council's Green Sefton team successfully bid for a £22,000 grant from the government’s Culture Recovery Fund. The cast iron structure has now been repaired, leaks to the roof mended and broken windows replaced. Plans are being made to bring the conservatory back into longer-term use.

The Observatory in Hesketh Park is also open during Heritage Open Days - check their entry for details.

Timings & Tours

Wednesday 11 September:

1000-1200

Friday 13 September:

1000-1200

Sunday 15 September:

1000-1200

Location & directions

Hesketh Park, Park Crescent, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 9NW

Directions:

The Park is on bus routes 2, 44 and 47 from Lord Street towards Crossens. There is on-street parking round the park. Once through any entrance, head towards the south side of the lake.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Additional information

The Park cafe is a short walk away near the playground. Public toilets are 10 minutes walk away on the edge of the Park. Dogs on a lead welcome in the Conservatory.

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