Park-to-Park

In response to Cee’s Black & White Photo Challenge: Fences and Gates

Avenham and Miller Parks lie side by side on the north bank of the River Ribble, immediately south of Preston City Centre, and rank among the finest examples of traditional Victorian parkland in the north west of England. Linked through ornate railway arches both parks were designed and created by the renowned landscape architect Edward Milner during the 1860’s and are Grade II listed on the English Heritage Register of Historic Gardens. At this time the American civil war was raging and cotton towns in the Northwest, including Preston, were experiencing a cotton famine. The parks were built as public works to keep cotton workers employed and prevent the social and economic problems associated with high unemployment. (The History of Avenham and Miller Parks)

Iron Gates on The Belvedere ©HelenBushe

Another major feature of the park is The Belvedere, a pavilion on high ground at the northeastern corner of the park, overlooking the main park and river. It was originally located in Miller Park but was moved to make way for the statue of the Earl of Derby. The Belvedere is known locally as the “White House” or the “Light House”. (Wikipedia)