GWR Park (Faringdon Road Park) - Image 1
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GWR Park Faringdon Road

4.3
·753 reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic GWR-established park with open green spaces, a playground, and a cricket field, perfect for peaceful strolls and community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends during events

Lively atmosphere & activities

CrowdMedium
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GWR Park (Faringdon Road Park) - Image 1

GWR Park Faringdon Road

Best Time

Weekends during events

Lively atmosphere & activities

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic GWR-established park with open green spaces, a playground, and a cricket field, perfect for peaceful strolls and community events.

4.3
(753 reviews)

"Great size park for hosting various events. Good location too as it's just a 5-10 minutes walk from the center and bus station."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

Walkable from town center & bus station, no car needed!

🌸 Enjoy the Flowers

Lovely flower displays add beauty to your strolls.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Community Events

Community Events

Various areas within the park

Experience vibrant local gatherings like the Blossomed Fair, featuring live music, stalls, and community art projects.

Reddit
Peaceful Strolls

Peaceful Strolls

Perimeter path

Enjoy a tranquil walk around the park's perimeter, taking in the open grassy areas and pleasant flower displays.

Reddit
Children's Playground

Children's Playground

Designated play area

A fun and safe space for kids to play, offering a classic playground experience.

TikTok
Cricket Field

Cricket Field

Central open space

Observe or enjoy a game on the expansive cricket field, a key feature of this historic park.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While GWR Park is open year-round, consider visiting during community events for a lively atmosphere. Weekday lunch breaks offer a peaceful escape with plenty of benches and walking paths. Reddit

Getting Around

The park is conveniently located a 5-10 minute walk from Swindon's town center and bus station, making it accessible without a car. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends during events
Why
Lively atmosphere & activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday lunchtimes
Why
Peaceful escape & fresh air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Even without kids #themepark #playground
@quality_coasters
619.2K likes • 8.8M views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

Walkable from town center & bus station, no car needed! Reddit

🌸 Enjoy the Flowers

Lovely flower displays add beauty to your strolls. Reddit

Well #swindon wasn’t dangerous like some, 31st worst townfeels about right. #wiltshire #LearnOnTikTok #PlacesToVisit #britishhumour #ukcomedy #satire
@philc84
308K likes • 2.6M views
period💅🏻 #strawb #vibes #trending #swindon #customers
@swindonstrawberrythief
126.7K likes • 708K views

🎉 Check for Events

Community events make the park extra special. Reddit

🌳 Plenty of Benches

Relax and enjoy the green space. Reddit

praying for everyone out there #explosion #swindon #jesussaves
@shaniacrasto
36K likes • 321K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

Walkable from town center & bus station, no car needed! Reddit

🌸 Enjoy the Flowers

Lovely flower displays add beauty to your strolls. Reddit

🎉 Check for Events

Community events make the park extra special. Reddit

🌳 Plenty of Benches

Relax and enjoy the green space. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(753 reviews)

Reviews Summary

GWR Park is appreciated for its convenient location, pleasant walking paths, and lovely flower displays, making it a nice spot for lunch breaks and peaceful strolls. It also serves as a venue for community events that add vibrancy to the area. While improvements are noted, some feel development is slow. Reddit

"Great size park for hosting various events. Good location too as it's just a 5-10 minutes walk from the center and bus station."

Alwayne

"I like going here on my lunch break, plenty of benches and a path to walk right the way around. Nice flowers too."

JBTEvans

"Visited for the blossomed fair may 2024. Like the way this park is being improved, and even though it was a bit of a damp squid of a day there was loads to do and loads of people out doing it. Community painting of the walls of an elec station, live music and stalls. Go for it to the local heritage group who organised this."

Anna Enright

What People Like

Great location
Peaceful walks
Community events

What People Dislike

Slow development

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

GWR Park is very accessible on foot, just a 5-10 minute walk from Swindon's town center and bus station. This makes it a convenient spot for those relying on public transport or walking. Reddit

While the park is easily reachable on foot, specific parking details are not widely mentioned. It's best to assume limited parking and prioritize walking or public transport if possible. Reddit

If you're working at GWH, living nearby can make walking to the park feasible. Otherwise, it's a short journey from the hospital to the town center, from where the park is a quick walk. Reddit

Yes, GWR Park is situated very close to the town center, making it a convenient location for both locals and visitors. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, cycling is generally a good option for accessing parks in urban areas. Be sure to check for any designated cycle racks upon arrival. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

GWR Park is an outdoor public space, and there are no admission fees mentioned. Entry is free for all visitors. TikTok

As an outdoor park, GWR Park is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific official opening and closing times are not usually published for public parks of this nature. TikTok

For community events like the Blossomed Fair, booking requirements can vary. It's advisable to check local event listings or the organizers' pages for specific ticketing information. Reddit

Absolutely! Its central location and pleasant walking paths make it ideal for a short break or a quick stroll during your day. Reddit

General park rules apply, such as respecting the grounds and other visitors. Specific restrictions are not commonly highlighted for this type of public park. TikTok

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy leisurely walks, relax on benches, let children play in the playground, or watch cricket games. The park also hosts community events. TikTokReddit

Yes, the dedicated children's playground makes it a great spot for families. The open grassy areas also provide space for kids to run around. TikTok

The park offers plenty of benches scattered throughout, perfect for resting, enjoying a snack, or simply taking in the surroundings. Reddit

The open grassy areas are ideal for picnics. Remember to bring a blanket and take any rubbish with you to keep the park clean. TikTok

With its open spaces, flower displays, and occasional events, GWR Park can offer pleasant photo opportunities, especially during community gatherings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no cafes or restaurants directly within GWR Park itself. Visitors often bring their own food for picnics. TikTok

Being close to Swindon's town center means there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and takeaways within a short walking distance of the park. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is perfectly fine and encouraged, especially if you plan on having a picnic. TikTok

During community events like the Blossomed Fair, food stalls are often present, offering a variety of treats and refreshments. Reddit

Given its proximity to the town center, you'll find convenience stores and small eateries nearby where you can purchase snacks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The open grassy areas, flower beds, and the cricket field offer scenic backdrops. During events, the vibrant atmosphere provides great photo opportunities. Reddit

Yes, the playground and open spaces are ideal for capturing candid shots of children enjoying themselves. TikTok

Drone usage in public parks can be restricted. It's best to check local council regulations or contact the park authorities before flying a drone. TikTok

Late afternoon often provides softer light for photography. However, the park is pleasant throughout the day, and event days offer unique photographic moments. Reddit

The park has historical roots as it was set up by the Great Western Railway for its workers, offering a glimpse into local heritage. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

GWR Park is a solid choice for families looking for a simple, accessible outdoor space. The children's playground is a definite draw, offering a place for kids to play freely. TikTok The park's open grassy areas are perfect for picnics and letting younger children run around safely. TikTok

Its proximity to the town center means you can easily combine a park visit with other activities. Pack some snacks and a blanket for a relaxed afternoon. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

For solo visitors or those who enjoy a peaceful walk, GWR Park is ideal. The perimeter path offers a pleasant route for a stroll, and there are plenty of benches to sit and relax. Reddit It's a great spot to take a break during the day, perhaps on a lunch break, and enjoy some fresh air. Reddit

The park's central location makes it easy to access, and its tranquil atmosphere provides a nice escape from the bustle of the town. Reddit

📅 Day-Trippers

If you're visiting Swindon for the day, GWR Park is a convenient stop. Its location near the town center and bus station means you can easily incorporate it into your itinerary without needing a car. Reddit It's a perfect place for a leisurely lunch break or a short walk to stretch your legs between other attractions. Reddit

Keep an eye out for any community events happening during your visit, as these can add an extra layer of local flavor to your day trip. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

GWR Park Faringdon Road holds a unique place in Swindon's history, originally established by the Great Western Railway (GWR). It was part of the company's initiative to provide housing and amenities for its workers, creating a community hub. This historical context adds a layer of significance to the park, reminding visitors of Swindon's railway heritage. Reddit

While some infrastructure improvements have been ongoing, the park retains its core function as a peaceful green space for relaxation and recreation. The presence of a cricket field hints at its past as a communal sporting area. Reddit

Visitors can appreciate the park not just for its current amenities but also for its connection to the industrial past of Swindon, offering a quiet retreat with a story to tell. Reddit

Community Spirit and Events

GWR Park is more than just a green space; it's a venue that fosters community spirit. Events like the Blossomed Fair showcase this, bringing people together for a day of activities, live music, and local stalls. Reddit These gatherings transform the park into a vibrant hub, highlighting local talent and community engagement. Reddit

The park has also seen community art projects, such as the painting of an electrical substation walls, demonstrating a collective effort to beautify the area. Reddit This active involvement from local heritage groups and residents ensures the park remains a dynamic and cherished part of the community. Reddit

Attending an event at GWR Park offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the local culture and connect with the Swindon community. Reddit

Family Fun and Recreation

For families, GWR Park offers a straightforward yet enjoyable experience. The children's playground is a key attraction, providing a safe and fun environment for kids to expend energy. TikTok The open grassy areas are perfect for running around, playing simple games, or enjoying a family picnic. TikTok

The park's layout, with its perimeter path, is also suitable for parents wanting to push strollers or for older children to cycle or scoot. TikTok While there aren't extensive play structures, the simplicity of the playground and the open space make it a reliable spot for a casual family outing. TikTok

It's a great place for a quick visit to let kids burn off steam, especially if you're in the area. The accessibility from the town center also makes it an easy addition to a day out in Swindon. Reddit

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