Vernon Park opened in 1858 and is Stockport’s oldest public park lying just east of the town centre. It’s an exceptional Victorian/Edwardian asset to both the local community and the North West region.
Once known as 'Pinch Belly Park' or the 'People’s Park', it was built by Stockport Corporation on land donated by George John Warren (Lord Vernon). It was an instant success with mill workers helping to construct park features.
The park received a £1.6 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant to give it a new lease of life and to restore it to its former splendour.
The park is well used by schools for historical and environmental studies. It provides unique areas for traditional pastimes such as crown green bowls and has beautifully restored areas of formal and informal parkland. The site also boasts a mature woodland along the river which is sensitively managed whilst maintaining public access.
If you're planning a trip to Vernon Park, download the park guide (PDF 332Kb) to help make the most of in your day