BEFORE 1834 the site of Birkenhead Park was swamp and marshland but when it was opened in 1847 it was the first park to be created with public funds in England and boasted meadows, woodlands and ponds.
Designed by Sir Joseph Paxton, famous for Chatsworth House and Crystal Palace, its landscaped walks, Swiss Bridge, lake and cricket grounds meant that it attracted international attention when it opened.
And in 1850 a visiting American was so impressed by what he saw that he based his designs for New York Central Park on Paxton's original plans.
In 1977 the park was designated a Conservation Area and by 1995 it had become Grade I Listed Landscape.
Organised events are held throughout the year and information about these and other park Rangers programmes for adults and children can be obtained from Tourist Information Centres, libraries and council offices.
Nearest Station: Birkenhead Park Buses from Birkenhead Town Centre and Woodside.
