Congleton Park

Just five minutes on foot from the Town Centre, this beautiful Victorian park offers something for everyone. It features a children’s playground, scenic riverside trails, pathways through the historic town woods, ornamental gardens, a bowling green, a traditional bandstand, public restrooms, and a charming café.

Congleton Park spans approximately 10 hectares (24.7 acres) and incorporates the historic Town Wood. Originally designed by Edward Kemp, the layout highlights scenic river vistas, a formal promenade bordered by rocky outcrops adorned with ornamental shrubs, and structured avenues lined with Chestnut and Lime trees. The park officially opened to the public on May 29, 1871. The park is maintained to a high standard year-round by the Streetscape team from Congleton Town Council, although ownership rests with Cheshire East Council. Supporting the park’s ongoing vitality is the Friends of Congleton Park – a dedicated group of volunteers who help organise events and work tirelessly to care for and enhance the space for future generations.

In 2005, the park underwent an extensive restoration funded by a £1.5 million Heritage and Lottery Grant, bringing it back to its original splendour. It’s now a vibrant venue for a range of community events — from live music performances on its century-old bandstand and the much-loved Duck Race, to the dazzling Rotary Bonfire Night and fireworks display. Over the years, it has even hosted major concerts, including one by Girls Aloud!

Owned by Cheshire East Council, but staff from Congleton Town Council’s Streetscape service ensure the park looks good 365 days of the year!