Forbury Gardens facts for kids
Forbury Gardens is a beautiful public park located in the town of Reading. Reading is in the English county of Berkshire. This park is a popular spot for people to relax and enjoy nature.
The park sits on a very old and important piece of land. It was once part of the outer area of Reading Abbey. This abbey was a very large and powerful monastery in the past. The area where the park is now was known simply as the Forbury. Even today, many people still call the gardens "The Forbury." For many centuries, big fairs were held here three times a year. These fairs were a major event until the 1800s.
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Discovering Forbury Gardens
Forbury Gardens is a special place with a rich history. It offers a peaceful escape in the middle of a busy town. The park is well-known for its beautiful flowerbeds and green lawns. It's a great place for a walk or a picnic.
A Park for Everyone
The gardens are designed for everyone to enjoy. You can find quiet spots to read a book. There are also open areas for children to play. Many local events and festivals are sometimes held here. This makes the park a lively community hub.
The History of the Forbury
The land where Forbury Gardens stands has a long past. It was once part of Reading Abbey, which was founded in 1121. The abbey was one of the largest and wealthiest in England. The Forbury was the open space just outside the main abbey buildings. It was used for many public gatherings.
From Abbey Land to Public Park
After the abbey was closed in the 1500s, the land changed hands many times. It continued to be an important open space for the town. In the 19th century, the idea of creating a formal public park grew. Forbury Gardens officially opened as a public park in 1856. This gave the people of Reading a dedicated green space to enjoy.
Important Moments at Forbury Gardens
Forbury Gardens has been a place of joy and community for many years. It has also seen some sad moments. In June 2020, a very upsetting event happened in the park. Several people were harmed, and the incident was investigated as a serious matter. This event brought sadness to the community. However, the park remains a symbol of peace and remembrance for the people of Reading.
Images for kids
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View from the tower of St Laurence's Church, c. 1875 by Henry Taunt
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Forbury Hill, used as a gun emplacement in the civil war
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Map of Forbury Gardens today
