Victoria Park, Leicester facts for kids
Victoria Park is a large public park in Leicester, England. It covers about 69 acres (279,000 square meters) and is a popular spot for fun and relaxation. You can find it just outside the city centre, next to the University of Leicester.
Contents
Discovering Victoria Park's Past
How Victoria Park Became a Park
Before it was a park, this area was known as the South Fields of Leicester. For many years, from 1806 to 1883, it was actually a racecourse for horses. After the races moved to a new location in Oadby, the area was officially opened as a park in 1882.
Buildings and Changes Over Time
There used to be a big grandstand, a building where people watched the races. This grandstand was later used as a pavilion. Sadly, it was damaged by a bomb during World War II in 1940 and had to be taken down. A new pavilion was built in its place and opened in 1958.
Football's Early Days at the Park
Did you know that the famous football team Leicester City F.C. once played here? Back then, they were called Leicester Fosse. They played several matches in Victoria Park between 1884 and 1890.
Fun Things to Do at Victoria Park
Sports and Activities for Everyone
Victoria Park is a great place for sports. You can play tennis, basketball, bowls, croquet, football, and cricket. There's also a cool skate park for skateboarders and an adventure playground for younger kids.
Events and Festivals in the Park
Most of the park is a big, flat grassy area. This makes it perfect for large outdoor events. In the past, it has hosted big music festivals like Summer Sundae and concerts by bands like Kasabian. It's also home to the Leicester Caribbean Carnival and Leicester Pride celebrations.
Park Facilities
The pavilion in the park has changing rooms for sports teams. It also has a cafe where you can grab a snack or a drink.
Important Landmarks in Victoria Park
Remembering Heroes: The Arch of Remembrance
The park is home to two special memorials. The most famous is the Arch of Remembrance. This large arch was designed by a famous architect named Edwin Lutyens. It was built in 1923 to remember the soldiers from Leicester who died in World War I. This arch is a very important historical building. It stands at the end of a beautiful path called "Peace Walk."
Other Memorials and Gates
Near the cafe, there is a smaller memorial. This one remembers the American 82nd Airborne Division, a group of soldiers who stayed in Leicester before D-Day in World War II. The main gates and lodges (small buildings) on the London Road side of the park were also designed by Edwin Lutyens and built in 1930.
Staying Active: Parkrun
Every Saturday morning, a free event called parkrun takes place in Victoria Park. It's a 5-kilometer (about 3.1 miles) run or walk that anyone can join. It's a great way to get some exercise and meet new people!
