Kings' Park, Retford
Located in the very heart of Retford, the award-winning Kings'
Park is often described as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the
Council’s green spaces.
Covering an area of over 10 hectares, the park is divided into
two parts by the River Idle, which provides a scenic backdrop for
people using the facility.
Owned and managed by the District Council (with the support of
other organisations), Kings' Park is open to the public from 9.00am
to 8.00pm (or dusk) when the park gates are locked.
If you cannot find information about the park on this website,
or you are an organiser who would like to host an event within the
park then please contact our Parks and Open Spaces team on 01909
533488 or email them at parks@bassetlaw.gov.uk.
Features and Facilities
The original park or ‘Formal Gardens’
Boasting various types of specimen trees from different
regions of the world, as well as neatly kept hedges, regularly mown
lawns, impressive water features and flower beds, this area of the
park is an ideal setting for relaxation and passive recreational
pursuits.
Also found in this area is the park’s pavilion. Open during the
Summer months May to September the pavilion offers access to the
bowling green, tennis court and toilet facilities and offers a
range of refreshments and confectionary.
This original area of the park can be found to the east of the
river.
Parkland to the west of the River (West Retford Hall side)
In contrast to the Formal Gardens, the parkland to the west of
the river opened as an extension much later – in 1960 – and caters
for younger visitors.
This part of the park includes a state-of-the-art children’s
play area and a separate skateboard park for teenagers.
With a range of mature trees, its grassland areas are ideal for
ball game activities including football, cricket and rounders.
The Wildlife Garden
Although found in the parkland to the west of the river, the
Wildlife Garden with its impressive habitats requires a separate
mention and is always worth a visit, whatever the time of
year.
The Wildlife Garden is home to an impressive array of birds and
wildlife, including Nuthatches, Thrushes and
Pipistrelle Bats. You may even be lucky enough to spot
Tawny Owls resting during the day or a Woodpecker flitting between
the trees.
Community Involvement
The park is host to many organised events throughout the year,
including Retford Charter Day on May Day Bank Holiday, the Retford
Scout and Guide carnival, and events organised by local schools and
play forums.
Awards
Kings' Park received national recognition in 2007 as winner of
Britain's Best Park competition in the Midlands region. This
was added to in 2008 when the Park achieved the prestigious Green
Flag Award.
The criteria for receiving this award is;
A welcoming
place,
Healthy, safe and secure,
Clean and well
maintained, Sustainability,
Conservation and Heritage,
Community involvement,
Marketing
Management
The Award is reassessed on an annual basis and in 2009 the Park
again achieved The Green Flag Award.
A Brief History
Kings' Park was opened on June 29th 1938, to commemorate not
only the reign of King George V, but also the Coronation year of
King George VI.
The later extension to the park was built within the former
grounds of the historic West Retford Hall, which dates from 1699
and still stands outside the North West boundary of the
site.
It was laid out on land given by the owner of Retford Hall at a
cost of between £7,000 and £8,000. The works were supported by a
public subscription of £2,000.
The park celebrated its 70th birthday in 2008.
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Last Updated - 26/01/2010