
It is one of Wolverhampton's district parks and has a rich history. Bequeathed to its present-day custodians in 1938 on the death of Alderman Albert Bantock, this former farm has undergone restoration works, partly funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The park is approximately 16 hectares (39.53 acres). The west of the park is mostly open space, which still retains its 'rural' character, with gently undulating ground, hedgerows and a variety of trees with a nature trail. The eastern side of the park changes near the house, becoming more formal, consisting of a series of recently restored gardens, reminiscent of the detail emerging around the late nineteenth/twentieth century.
Location
Bantock Park
Finchfield Road
Wolverhampton
WV3 9LQ
Things to do
Bantock Park is a great venue for a range of activities at low or no cost. A picnic in the park is something the whole family can enjoy, from toddlers to grandparents. The children's play area has many challenges for young children, for example, traditional monkey bars and swings to multi-play units. A range of other facilities to enjoy across the age ranges include:
- Re-built changing rooms
- tea room
- Bantock House Museum
- Georgian farm buildings (home to a range of nature, educational, dance, music and theatrical events, activities and exhibitions)
Improvements to Bantock Park
It is one of Wolverhampton's district parks and has a proud history, going back to 1896. The park is approximately 18 hectares in size. East Park is a focus of great pride for the people living nearby.
Location
East Park
Hickman Avenue
Wolverhampton
WV1 2BS
Facilities
- Football pitches
- Tennis courts
- Ranger events
- Splash Pad
- The Splash Pad is currently closed. Please follow general safety guidance at the Splash Pad. Thank you for your cooperation.
- Large play area, catering for toddlers, juniors and older children.
- The facility includes; cradle swings, a small trampoline, springy animals, see-saws, a roundabout, climbing walls, multi-play units, as well as giant slides and pendulum swings etc.
It is a fine example of a Victorian municipal park and was one of the best in the country to set a trend for the provision of areas for specific sporting activities (originally bowls, archery and cricket). The park is considered to be one of the best, unspoilt examples of a Victorian park left in England and is Wolverhampton's premier open space.
The park is 17 hectares (roughly 43 acres) in area (including its lake) and provides a beautifully landscaped green space within a ten-minute walk of Wolverhampton city centre.
Location
West Park
Park Road West
Wolverhampton
WV1 4PH
Facilities and attractions
- picnics
- tennis courts
- chalet tearooms
- children's play area
- bowling green (located in Park Crescent)
- disabled access
- heated Victorian Conservatory - closed until further notice.
Prior to COVID, West Park Conservatory was run and maintained by the Friends of West Park, made up of local park users. The group maintained and propagated plants, as well as using their volunteers to staff the Conservatory, so it could be opened to the public. Unfortunately, this group has now dissolved which has meant that the Conservatory has now been temporarily closed. The Parks Team are currently looking into the potential of a joint venture with a local volunteer organisation who, along with maintaining and opening it, wish to use the Conservatory as a training facility. In addition to this, the team are also maintaining details of potential volunteers who may wish to be involved in the Conservatory in the future. Please email MyParkVisit@wolverhampton.gov.uk if you would like your contact details to be recorded as a potential volunteer.
Follow us
There are many informal walks through the woodland and opportunities to view or photograph a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitats.
Northycote Farm has on its site a Tudor farmhouse which is steeped in history. The farmhouse itself is not always open to the public, but throughout the year, it is opened to the public for tours and other events.
At the farm
There are many informal walks through the woodland. These offer opportunities to view or photograph a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. Animals at the farm include:
- Norfolk Black Turkeys
- Geese, chickens, ducks and guinea fowl
- Shropshire sheep
- Pigs
Other things to do include regular events held throughout the year, such as:
- Easter Egg Trails
- May Day Celebrations
- Music
- Town and Country Show
- Harvest Festival
- House tours run by the Friend's Group
- Halloween Events
- Christmas Events; log dressing, wreath making, star dedication and traditional Christmas Fayre's with Father Christmas
Also open for all of the farm's events are the tea rooms and picnic area and on-site there are facilities for baby changing and disabled toilets.
Location and contact details
Northycote Farm
Underhill Lane
Bushbury
Wolverhampton
WV10 7JF
- Telephone: 01902 397906
- Tea rooms: 01902 784200
- bus 613
- location map
Opening hours
Northycote Farm operates different open hours to the rest of the city's parks:
- The animal enclosures are open 9am to 4pm
- The car park is open 8am to 5pm
- Christmas Day: closed
Entry
There is free entry to the farm and woodland, car park and tea rooms. However, some events may charge a small fee.
The park is located half a mile from Bilston Town Centre. The park opened in 1911 as a memorial to Sir Alfred Hickman, a local industrialist and former MP.
Hickman Park is currently undergoing restoration, in a project funded by the Heritage Lottery. The park will be returned to its original splendour, with the benefits of modern facilities.
There is now a new building to house the park rangers; a meeting room, toilet and baby changing facilities.
There is also an open-air theatre which has been restored, alongside the Park Shelter, after funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The theatre has, in the past, held many events and once again is starting to gain attention by being used regularly.
Location
Hickman Park
Wolverhampton Street
Bilston
Wolverhampton
WV14 0LZ
Things to do
As well as the theatre, there is a sports arena with terracing. The arena is an ideal place for both playing sports and for spectators. In addition to all of the usual things to enjoy in parks, walking, exercising well-behaved and controlled dogs etc. there is also:
- mini football pitches
- toddler/children's play area
- urban sports court (multi-ball)
- rangers events
- wildflower meadow
- Sons of Rest group
Location
Dudley Road
Blakenhall
Wolverhampton
West Midlands
WV2 3JU
Facilities
Visitors to the park can enjoy:
- Children's play area
- Seated amphitheatre
- Two ball courts
- Lighting
- Network of paths
- Outdoor fitness equipment
- Playing fields
- Horticultural improvements
- Wildflower meadow areas
- Revamped entrance area, signage
- Car Park
- Toilet
- Parks clock
- Play facilities for all ages
- BMX track through the woods
- Woodland area
These have improved visitor numbers - use of park facilities and community use of the park (including Walking for Health etc.).
If you would like to tell us about your visit to Phoenix Park, or if you are interested in becoming a ‘Friend of Phoenix Park’, please email us at MyParkVisit@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
St Peter's Collegiate Church and Lich Gate War Memorial Gardens
Occupying a site of great historical importance; the settlement of Wolverhampton became a centre of local religious, political and economic importance during the 10th Century, although the original church had its origins in the 7th Century.
Since the decline of the gardens from the 1940s onward; various restoration phases have been undertaken, including the many heritage structures.
- Horsman Fountain (also listed)
- Harris Memorial (known locally as the 'sailor statue')
- Saxon Pillar
- Bargaining Stone.
The Horsman Fountain dates from 1896, and commemorates Philip Horsman, a local businessman who founded Wolverhampton Art Gallery, and the Wolverhampton & Staffordshire Eye Infirmary; whilst the Harris Memorial commemorates a wireless operator in World War I who, whilst posted to an Italian ship, continued to send messages whilst under heavy fire until he was killed by shrapnel on 15 May 1917.
Representing one of the few areas of green space located in the Wolverhampton City Centre Conservation Area (designated in 1972). The gardens form the setting for St Peter's Collegiate Church, which is one of two Grade I Listed Buildings in the City. Providing the setting for other important buildings such as the nearby Wolverhampton Art Gallery.
The gardens were originally part of the church's graveyard. They were handed over to the town at the end of the 19th century and turned into gardens.
Awards
The gardens successfully achieved Green Flag status again this year, following a successful first bid in 2010.
Access
The gardens are located on a hill in the centre of the city and can present difficulties for those with impaired mobility.
Opportunities to improve site accessibility are limited due to the historic sensitivity and the gradients involved.
Wheelchair/pushchair users access via lower south/east gardens and to the south porch of the church.
All Parks are open daily, including Bank Holidays.
The parks open daily at 7.30 am (some sites may be open earlier) and close at the following times:
- 1 January - 31 January 2023, 5pm
- 1 February - 28 February 2023, 5.30pm
- 1 March - 31 March 2023, 6.30pm
- 1 April - 30 April 2023, 8pm
- 1 May - 31 May 2023, 8.30pm
- 1 June - 31 August 2023, 9pm
- 1 September - 30 September 2023, 7.30pm
- 1 October - 31 October 2023, 6.30pm
- 1 November - 31 December 2023, 5pm
Please note: it takes time to lock all our parks, please do not enter after the official closing time - even if the gates are still open.
Toilets: Parks toilets are only open when there is a Ranger present to open them, except for West Park, where they are coin-operated and Bantock Park, where the toilets are managed by the Bantock Café.
Keep up to date with the latest government guidance when visiting parks.
Regular Activities
NCT Toddle Waddle
Join other new parents for a stroll around West Park whilst chatting and making new friends.
Where: West Park
When:
Tuesdays - 11:30am
Fridays - 1:30pm
Further information: Free but you must register to attend.
Jolly Joggers
Jolly Joggers is a beginner’s couch to 5k running programme for people who want to improve their mental health by being more active. It is led by friendly, qualified run leaders who have personal experience of mental health problems on behalf of Black Country Mental Health.
Where: West Park
When: Saturdays - 10:15am
Group 2: Starting September 16th for 12 weeks (finishing Sat 2nd Dec 2023)
Further information: All bookings are to be made via BCMH Website www.blackcountrymentalhealth.org.uk
Junior Park Run
It’s a free junior 2k event for children aged 4- 10 yrs old.
Where: King George V Playing Fields
When: Every Sunday - 9am – 9:30am
Further information: For more information please visit: www.parkrun.org.uk
Park Run (East Park)
Come along and join in the 5K run. Its FREE but you must register.
Where: East Park
When: Every Saturday - 9am – 10am
Further information: For more information please visit: www.parkrun.org.uk
Park Run (West Park)
Come along and join in the 5K run. Its FREE but you must register.
Where: West Park
When: Every Saturday - 9am – 10am
Further information: For more information please visit: www.parkrun.org.uk
Coopers Troopers Bootcamp
Coopers Troopers Bootcamp is an outdoor, 60-minute session. Sessions are designed and delivered by current or ex-military instructors and aim to target a certain heart rate to enable members to achieve the best workout that will leave you burning calories even after the session ends.
Where: Bantock Park
When:
Tuesdays
MetaPWR – 7:30am – 8:00am
Bootcamp - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Wednesdays
MetaFIT - 7:30 am - 8:00 am
MetaPWR - 6:30pm - 7:30 pm
Thursdays - Bootcamp - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Saturdays - Bootcamp - 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Sundays - Metafit - 9:30 am - 10:00 am
Further information: For more information please visit: https://www.cooperstroopersbootcamp.com/
WVSC – Social Prescribing Offer for Younger People
Free outdoor activities for younger people to include walking, team building activities such as orienteering.
Where: West Park
When: Saturdays - 11:00am – 11:45am
Further information: For more information please email: ben@benmescamfitness.com
Marathon Kids UK
Free, weekly activity community sessions for children and families. Including fun warm up games, relay races and 20 min running session allowing children to maintain regular exercise outside of school.
Where: Bushbury Memorial Recreational Ground
When: Saturdays From 28th January - 10:00am – 11:00am
Further information: For more information please email: community@marathonkids.co.uk
Events
Wednesfield Christmas Lights Switch On
Family lights switch on event featuring a stage, small fun fair, local entertainment, face painting, food stalls and festive fun for all the family!
Where: Wednesfield High Street, WV11 1DN
When: Thursday 23rd November - 4.30pm – 7pm Switch on at 6.30pm
Further information: For more information, please click the link: Wolverhampton Christmas Events 2023
Bilston Christmas Lights Switch On
Family lights switch on event featuring a stage, small fun fair, local entertainment, face painting, food stalls and festive fun for all the family!
Where: Church Street, Bilston, WV14 0AT
When: Friday 24th November - 4.30pm – 7pm Switch on at 6.30pm
Further information: For more information, please click the link: Wolverhampton Christmas Events 2023
Tettenhall Christmas Lights Switch On
Family lights switch on event featuring a stage, small fun fair, local entertainment, face painting, food stalls and festive fun for all the family!
Where: Upper Green, Tettenhall, WV6 8QH
When: Saturday 25th November - 4.30pm – 7pm Switch on at 6.30pm
Further information: For more information, please click the link: Wolverhampton Christmas Events 2023
Bantock Park Christmas Lights Switch On
Family lights switch on event featuring a stage, small fun fair, local entertainment, face painting, food stalls and festive fun for all the family!
Where: Bantock Park, Finchfield Road, WV3 9LQ
When: Sunday 26th November - 4.30pm – 7pm Switch on at 6.30pm
Further information: For more information, please click the link: Wolverhampton Christmas Events 2023
Big Bird Run
Lace up your running shoes for The Big Bird 5km Run 2023! Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a novice on the field, this event is open to all. Not only will you be partaking in a fun-filled run, but you’ll also be supporting a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of those living with lupus.
Where: East Park
When: Sunday 26th November - Run starts at 10am
Further information: For more information, please visit https://www.hibbslupustrust.org/the-big- bird-5km-run-2023/
Luminate
Join us on our enchanting journey, as we weave a captivating light trail through the beautiful gardens of West Park. Immerse yourself in our mesmerising almost mile long trail, with stunning lighting elements and fabulous light play, all set to music. There will be food units and small kids rides at the start and end of the trail to enjoy, as well as toasted marshmallows and mulled wine approx half way around.
Where: West Park
When: Friday 1st – Sunday 24th December - Please see event site for full session timings
Further information: For all information, please visit https://luminate.live/wolverhampton
All tickets must be prebooked online for entry.
Wolverhampton Christmas Market
There will be an array of products on offer from local and international vendors, including unique artisan creations, one of a kind handmade treasures, novelty items,
affordable stocking fillers, toys and much more.
Where: Dudley Street, Wolverhampton City Centre.
When: Saturday 16th – Friday 22nd December - 10am – 5pm
Further information: For more information, please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/103694 3817714634
Follow the Star Wolverhampton – A City Centre Nativity and Lantern Parade
A City Centre Nativity & Lantern Parade beginning at St John’s in the Square Church and ending in St Peter’s Square. Bring a lantern (LED lights only) and join Mary, Joseph and the alpacas for storytelling and Christmas carols accompanied by the West Midlands Fire Service Band.
Where: Wolverhampton City Centre
When: Saturday 16th December - 3pm – 4.30pm
Further information: For more information and contacts, please visit https://www.wolverhamptoncircuit.co.uk/bl og-latest-news
Wolverhampton & Bilston AC Turkey Trot
A 5 mile running race. Participants are 15 years plus. From beginners to elite athletes.
Where: Aldersley Leisure Village & surrounding area
When: Monday 18th December - Race begins at 11.30am
Further information: For more information and contacts, please visit https://www.wolvesandbilstonac.co.uk/
If you have a query about one of the city's parks or green spaces please complete our general enquiry form providing as much information as you can to enable us to respond as quickly as possible.
If you would like to hire one of Wolverhampton's Park spaces, please complete the application form in the downloads section on the Outdoor Events page.