The park was gifted to the Littleborough community by the Newall family, local flannel manufacturers, in the early 20th century.
Hare Hill House, located within the park grounds, is a former merchant's villa built in the early 19th century.
The park contains a prominent clock tower that serves as a focal point for the estate’s original garden design.
The grounds include a dedicated sensory garden area designed for inclusive access.
It remains one of the few examples of a preserved industrial-era private estate garden accessible to the public in the Rochdale borough.
Hare Hill Park is a community green space in Littleborough, situated on the former grounds of the Hare Hill House estate. The park features a blend of ornamental gardens, mature woodland, and open recreational lawns. It includes a dedicated children's play area and several tennis courts available for public use. The site serves as the primary municipal park for the local area, maintained by Rochdale Borough Council. Historically, the land was donated to the urban district council by the local industrialist family, the Newalls. The park topography is varied, featuring a notable slope that provides elevated views over the surrounding Pennine landscape. It is linked to the nearby Hare Hill House, a Grade II listed building that currently operates as a community venue.
From the elevated bench near the central clock tower, capturing the view of the formal gardens with the hills in the background.
Wear sturdy footwear if you intend to walk the wooded trails, as the paths can be uneven or muddy after rainfall.
Check the local Littleborough community calendar before visiting, as the park occasionally hosts seasonal fairs and heritage open days.
The park's incline is significant; those with mobility concerns should stick to the lower-level paths near the main entrance.
Attempting to drive directly into the park grounds, as parking is limited to the perimeter street access.
Maintain noise levels respectful of nearby residential properties and dispose of all litter in provided bins.
