Vernon Park facts for kids

Vernon Park is a really old and lovely park in Stockport, Greater Manchester, England. It's known as the oldest country park in the area. Inside the park, you'll also find the Vernon Park Museum.

History of Vernon Park

Vernon Park first opened its gates on September 20, 1858. People sometimes called it Pinch Belly Park or the People's Park. It was built by the Stockport Corporation. This is like the local council back then. The land for the park was given by a kind person named George John Warren, also known as Lord Vernon.

Building the park gave jobs to many people who didn't have work at the time. These were often mill workers who were very hungry. This is why it got the nickname Pinch Belly Park.

Today, Vernon Park is very special. It has a Grade II status on the English Heritage Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. This means it's an important historical place. The park got £2.1 million to help restore it. This money came from the Heritage Lottery. After the restoration, the park reopened on September 29, 2000.

What You Can Find in the Park

In 1842, Lord Vernon gave about 15 acres of land to Stockport Corporation. This land was about 1 mile southeast of the town. The council then turned it into a public park for everyone to enjoy.

One part of the park goes up from the bank of the River Goyt. This river flows over a special wall called a weir, which makes a small waterfall. The park has many cool things to see. You can find statues, pretty ponds, and interesting rock formations. There is also a fountain and lots of beautiful plants. The Mayor of Stockport, William Williamson, officially opened the park on September 20, 1858.

The park has a bandstand where music used to be played. There is also a fun maze to get lost in and a peaceful pond. Kids can enjoy the playground, and there's a bowling green for games. The gardens are lovely with water features, a fernery, and a sunken garden. You can also see colorful flower beds. The park has tree-lined paths, more statues, and even an old cannon. From some spots, you can see the nearby old mills.

Vernon Park Museum

A museum first opened in the park in 1860. It was first called the Stockport Museum. Later, its name was changed to the Vernon Museum. In 2013, the museum closed its doors. Many of its 2,800 objects were moved to the Stockport Story Museum.

Now, a group called Pure Innovations runs the building. They help people with disabilities. The building also has a cafe. This cafe is run by people with disabilities, giving them valuable work experience.

Images for kids