Williamson Park and Ashton Memorial Lancaster
A sprawling 54-acre park featuring the iconic Ashton Memorial, woodland walks, a mini zoo, and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Williamson Park and Ashton Memorial Lancaster
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 54-acre park featuring the iconic Ashton Memorial, woodland walks, a mini zoo, and stunning coastal views.
"A well-kept secret in Lancashire, offering magnificent views and delightful attractions for all ages."
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take bus 18 from city centre for a hassle-free trip.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ashton Memorial
Top of the hill
A magnificent domed skyline memorial offering spectacular panoramic views of Lancaster and beyond.
Mini Zoo & Butterfly House
Within the park
A delightful attraction for all ages, featuring a variety of animals and a tropical butterfly gallery.
Woodland Walks & Ponds
Throughout the park
Explore peaceful paths winding through woodlands, past charming ponds, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There Without a Car
Picnic & Relax
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take bus 18 from city centre for a hassle-free trip.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic views.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking paths, wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee at the kiosk atop the hill. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take bus 18 from city centre for a hassle-free trip.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic views.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking paths, wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee at the kiosk atop the hill. :coffee:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Park
Bring your furry friends along! :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Williamson Park is widely praised as a beautiful and well-maintained green space offering something for everyone. Visitors rave about the spectacular views from the Ashton Memorial, the delightful mini zoo and butterfly house, and the peaceful woodland walks. It's considered an excellent value for money and a must-visit for those in Lancaster, especially for families and day-trippers.
"A wonderful place to spend a day or a few hours! The park is perfect for walking and relaxing, with beautiful paths, ponds, and even a mini zoo. Families will love the playgrounds, and everyone can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The views from the park are absolutely spectacular, especially around the Ashton Memorial. If you’re visiting Lancaster without a car, it’s easy to reach by taking bus number 18 from the city centre. Highly recommended for a relaxing day out. 🌿✨"
Ezgi Bay
"A well kept secret in Lancashire!!
A beautiful and well kept 54 acres park, so wonderful in the outskirts of Lancaster and so close to the university.
The Ashton memorial is magnificent!
The little zoo and butterfly house are a delight. A small fee to access the former and a parking fee for a whole day parking.
Pack a picnic bag, take your friends, your pet, your loved ones, it will be a well spent day in this gorgeous place.
A"
Martha Ackroyd
"We had a great time at the park. We climbed the steps to the tower, enjoyed a nice coffee at the kiosk and went on a forest walk. An absolute delight"
Alex L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's very easy to reach Williamson Park by public transport. Take bus number 18 from Lancaster city centre, which runs frequently and stops directly at the park. This makes it a convenient option for day-trippers and those without personal vehicles.
Yes, there is a parking fee for a whole day's parking at Williamson Park. This is a good option if you are driving to the park.
Williamson Park is located on the outskirts of Lancaster, a short bus ride or a moderate walk from the city centre. It's easily reachable within a few minutes by bus.
While it's a bit of a walk, it is possible to walk from Lancaster train station to Williamson Park. It would take approximately 30-40 minutes, offering a chance to see more of the city.
The Ashton Memorial is situated at the top of the hill within Williamson Park. You can walk up the park's paths to reach it, enjoying the views as you ascend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Williamson Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there is a small admission fee for the mini zoo and butterfly house.
The park is generally open daily from dawn till dusk. The specific opening hours for the mini zoo and butterfly house may vary, so it's advisable to check their official website or inquire locally.
Typically, you can purchase tickets for the mini zoo and butterfly house upon arrival. Booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check for any special events or seasonal changes.
There is a small admission fee for the mini zoo and butterfly house. The exact cost can vary, so it's best to confirm the current prices when you visit.
Information on discounts for the mini zoo and butterfly house is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire directly at the attraction for any available concessions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park boasts the magnificent Ashton Memorial, a delightful mini zoo with a butterfly house, beautiful woodland walks, ponds, and stunning coastal views. There are also playgrounds for children and a cafe.
Absolutely! Families love Williamson Park due to its playgrounds, the mini zoo, and the butterfly gallery. The open spaces are perfect for kids to run around and explore.
Yes, Williamson Park offers 54 acres of parkland with numerous paths for walking. You can enjoy woodland walks, explore the grounds around the Ashton Memorial, and discover various scenic spots.
Yes, public toilets are available within Williamson Park, making it comfortable for visitors spending a few hours or a whole day.
You can expect spectacular coastal views from Williamson Park, especially from the Ashton Memorial. It offers panoramic vistas of Lancaster and the surrounding landscape.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a lovely cafe located at the top of the hill within Williamson Park, near the Ashton Memorial. Visitors often praise the coffee served there.
Definitely! Many visitors recommend packing a picnic bag to enjoy in the park's beautiful surroundings. It's a great way to save money and make the most of the scenic spots.
While not designated picnic areas, the park's numerous open spaces and benches provide ample opportunities to enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
The cafe offers refreshments like coffee and likely light snacks or meals. It's a convenient spot for a break while exploring the park.
For a wider selection of dining options, you would need to head back towards Lancaster city centre. The park's cafe is the primary food service within the park itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ashton Memorial offers iconic shots with its grand architecture and panoramic views. The woodland paths and ponds also provide beautiful, serene photo opportunities.
Early mornings or late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide the best natural light for photography, especially for capturing the views from the Ashton Memorial.
Yes, you can take photos of the animals in the mini zoo. Remember to be respectful of the animals and follow any guidelines provided by the zoo staff.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's advisable to check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both the grand architecture of the Ashton Memorial and the details of the mini zoo. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic is highly recommended, as there are many lovely spots to sit and enjoy a meal together. The open spaces are perfect for games, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for families. It's an affordable and enjoyable day out that caters to various interests.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
You can spend hours exploring the Ashton Memorial, enjoying the woodland walks, or visiting the mini zoo. The park provides a peaceful retreat and stunning views, making it an ideal spot to relax, reflect, and capture some memorable photos. Many solo visitors find it a comforting and beautiful place to spend their time.
❤️ Couples & Relaxed Visitors
Enjoying a coffee from the cafe with panoramic views or simply finding a quiet bench to relax together makes for a perfect, low-key date. The park's expansive grounds mean you can find your own secluded spot to enjoy each other's company amidst nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Ashton Memorial
Many visitors describe the climb as rewarding, with the views from the top being a significant highlight of their visit. The memorial itself is an impressive piece of architecture, and its prominent position makes it a landmark that defines the park's skyline. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply stunning vistas, the Ashton Memorial is a must-see.
Experiencing the Memorial
When visiting the Ashton Memorial, allow ample time to soak in the views. The ascent is manageable for most, and the reward is well worth the effort. It's a perfect spot for a moment of reflection or to capture memorable photographs of the Lancaster landscape.
A Delightful Day Out: Mini Zoo & Butterfly House
The butterfly house is a tropical haven filled with vibrant, fluttering creatures and lush plant life. It offers a tranquil and beautiful escape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a unique environment. Both attractions are popular, especially with families, and contribute significantly to the park's appeal as a diverse recreational space.
Tips for Visiting the Zoo & Butterfly House
Plan your visit to coincide with feeding times if possible for more active animal viewing. The butterfly house is particularly enchanting when the sun is shining, as it illuminates the colours of the butterflies and plants. Remember to check the specific opening times for these attractions as they may differ from the park's general hours.
Exploring the Parkland and Ponds
These natural areas are ideal for a gentle walk, a quiet moment of contemplation, or a family picnic. The variety of landscapes within the park ensures there's something for everyone, from open grassy areas to shaded woodland trails. It's this blend of manicured beauty and natural charm that makes Williamson Park a beloved local spot.
Making the Most of Your Walk
Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven in some woodland areas. Keep an eye out for local birdlife around the ponds. The park is also pet-friendly, so it's a great place to bring your dog for a walk.
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