This Victorian park is perfect to visit on a sunny dayQueen’s Park in Bolton(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
This week the UK has had a taste of an early summer with temperatures reaching the mid-20s. In Greater Manchester we’ve basked in glorious sunshine and it’s set to last a little while yet.
Today the Met Office forecasts highs of up to 25C in the region, not too shabby considering it’s still April. With plenty of sunshine on the cards – sun cream, sunglasses and shorts are definitely a must if you’re heading outside.
Tomorrow is set to be another scorcher, with the mercury reaching 25C once again according to the latest forecast.
As we enter the bank holiday weekend, conditions are expected to cool down a little, although it will still be pleasant for spring.
Queen’s Park in Bolton(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
We can expect highs of 19C on Friday with some clouds, while Saturday will be a similar situation. Sunday and Monday are looking more fresh, with a cooler 14C expected.
In the meantime it’s a good idea to make the most of the sunshine while we’ve still got it, whether that’s with a lunchtime visit to your local park or a walk with a loved-one after work.
We’ve got so many incredible parks across Greater Manchester to choose from, including Queen’s Park in Bolton.
The 22-acre Victorian park is located just outside the town centre and includes many original features.
It has vast lawns, landscaped flowerbeds, winding paths and several lakes. Flowing through the southern section of the park is the River Croal.
Queen’s Park in Bolton(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
Queen’s Park also has a football pitch, bowling green and a playground for kids. In the corner of the park is the Pavillion Cafe where you can grab a refreshing drink and a bite to eat, open daily from 9.30am to 4.30pm.
The park was created from pasture land bought from the Earl of Bradford as part of works including in the Bolton Improvement Act 1864. It was opened as Bolton Park in May 1866 by the Earl, but it was later changed to Queen’s Park in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
It’s a lovely spot to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day, take a leisurely stroll or even just sit on a bench and watch the world go by.
The park has acquired hundreds of five-star reviews on Google. One visitor, Jeremy wrote: “A great park near the centre of Bolton, with car parking off Chorley New Road.
Queen’s Park in Bolton(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
“Plenty of pathways, bridges, viewing points and a café and children’s play area too. Very peaceful and a good place to walk and relax.
“The place is dog friendly and there are plenty of bins and benches dotted around.”
Another visitor, Michael, described it as a tranquil escape from the town centre. He wrote: “A hidden gem just outside Bolton town centre. Beautifully cared for and maintained.
“A lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of Bolton town centre.”
Chorley New Rd, Bolton BL1 4RU
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