The park was laid out by the renowned landscape gardener Edward Kemp.
It is home to one of the few remaining Victorian-style glasshouses in public parks in the region.
The observatory in the park houses a telescope originally built in the early 20th century.
The rockery is one of the largest of its kind in the UK, constructed using local and imported stone.
Hesketh Park holds a Green Flag Award status, recognizing high environmental standards.
Hesketh Park is one of the largest public parks in Southport, covering approximately 12 hectares of Victorian-designed landscape. It features a large ornamental lake, an extensive rockery, and a tropical glasshouse. The park was opened to the public in 1868, gifted to the town by local banker Charles Hesketh Fleetwood-Hesketh. Its design retains many original features, including winding pathways, mature woodland, and formal flower beds. The on-site cafe offers refreshments with views overlooking the central lake area. An observatory is located on the park grounds, managed by the local astronomical society. The site is designated as a Grade II listed park and garden by Historic England. Wildlife habitats within the park include a bird sanctuary and various nesting areas for local waterfowl.
The elevated viewing point overlooking the central lake and the reflection of the glasshouse.
Walk the perimeter trail to see the diverse range of mature specimen trees, some of which are over a century old.
Visit the sensory garden area for aromatic plants and tactile installations.
Check the local astronomical society schedule if you are interested in stargazing events.
Feeding the waterfowl with bread, as it is harmful to the birds and water quality; use designated bird seed or avoid feeding entirely.
