A Brief History of Weston Park

History

Weston Park is the closest park to Sheffield City Centre and is home to Weston Park Museum, which has now re-opened after major restoration and refurbishment. Just inside the Western Bank Top Gates you will find Weston Park Weather Station – one of the oldest weather recording stations in the country.

Weston Park was developed from the grounds of Weston Hall, which was owned by Thomas Harrison, an eminent sawmaker. The grounds were acquired by Sheffield City Council, who commissioned Robert Marnock, one of the leading park and garden designers of the 19^th century (he also designed the Sheffield Botanical Gardens, High Hazels Park and Regent’s Park in London), to create the park.

Weston Park was one of the first municipal parks in Sheffield, and it first opened its gates to the public in 1875.

Restoration

Weston Park Victorian Bandstand back in its heyday

Restoration work has been ongoing in Weston Park and will be completed in 2008 returning the park to its former glory. There has been many improvements which include:

Resurfacing of all paths and replacing modern railing and gates with more appropriate designs.
Refurbishing all 7 of the Grade II listed monuments.
Recreating the original vision for the lake as a reflective sheet of water crossed by two beautiful bridges, using the original designs.
Restoring the bandstand, to create an outdoor classroom and a unique cultural venue.
Replacing the stolen South East gates.
Planting new trees and shrubs to increase the all year interest and sensory value.
Installing new benches and sheltered seating areas.
Remodelling and refurbishing two of the existing tennis courts.
Improving facilities for Parks staff.
Installing lighting and CCTV along the main routes through the park.
Installing new signage and interpretation boards.
Developing a range of activities and events to encourage new users from across the City and beyond.

A Brief History of Weston Park

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