Of course with the global epidemic that hit in 2020 and is continuing to plague us in 2021 we have no choice really but to explore our local area. I noticed an article that this little hidden gem is getting a makeover in the next year or so. So I decided to pay it a visit and then maybe revisit once the renovations have been completed.
Welcome to.......
Whitehall Park, Darwen.
Whitehall Park is a 16-acre park at the southern end of Darwen just off the main A666 road. The park forms a long thin strip that slopes steeply up from the road that leads on to the surrounding Darwen Moors, with paths leading Darwen Tower. It has winding paths leading up through a wooded valley to grass terraces and has views north towards Longridge Fell and the Pennines. It was opened in 1879.
Up from the main entrance, there is a playground on the left which is sited on the site of the old White Hall Mill. The path from here raises and winds itself through wooded surroundings. The main feature of the site is a stream, broken into a series of falls and pools. In the main pool stands a cast-iron Fountain that wasn't in operation on this walk, which was a shame and looks in a bit of disrepair.
Carrying on up more winding paths we come across, what should have been a show-stopping sight, and considering the amount of rain we had in the previous days to this walk it really should have been; The Waterfall.
As the park was designed it was thought to make use of the natural stream near the head of the rock formation at the top end of the park. The water was redirected over the rocks to form a 40ft waterfall. With it being a natural waterfall it is only when in full flow following heavy rain that it becomes a truly spectacular sight. The stream then runs nearly the full length of the park which then apparently goes underground at the Duckpond and reappears at the other side of the main road.
Carrying on our way up the park the to the right curves opens up into a much more open space with many paths to choose from. In the past, this area is where apparently the bandstand was, and a shelter for those who came to listen to the music. Now it is just an open space with is nowadays known as the community orchid. We decided to climb the path to the side of the waterfall. This path leads to another open space and to the moors beyond.
Heading back down now we took the paths to our left and so the open space of the community orchid reappeared. Carrying on down we come across another of the Park's main features, the Catlow Drinking Fountain. The wrought-iron canopied structure is a grade 2 listed feature that is dated to around 1901 and was restored in 2010 by the parks supporters group. This is no longer a working drinking fountain but is very picturesque. Having got married in the nearby Whitehall Hotel, had I known about this little park I would have had some lovely pictures taken in the park.
And what spring walk is complete without some blossom and sprig time flowers before heading out the Lych Gate on Queen’s Road. Overall a good little walk that was about 1.25 miles in total but could have been more if we explored a bit more.
Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read and I hope you enjoy my photos!
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