Central Park, Bell Meadow and Sky Blue Pasture

One of the oldest public parks in Chelmsford, Central Park, was originally named Chelmsford Recreation Grounds. It opened to the public in 1894. Today, Central Park also includes Central Park Memorial Gardens, Frank Whitmore Green, Bell Meadow and Sky Blue Pasture which embraces over 14.87 hectares (35.6 acres) of parkland together with a Nature Reserve. All the component parts are linked by footpath and cycle networks.  As the name implies, it is in the centre of the city and offers visitors the opportunity to relax and take in green surroundings whilst remaining only a short walk away from the hustle and bustle.

Visitors can enjoy the colourful planting schemes, riverside walks and cycle paths, model railway, children’s play areas, lake, skateboard ramp, tennis courts, a multi-use games area and table tennis. Perhaps visit one of the many outdoor events held during the year. Visitors can also take in the views of the iconic Victorian railway viaduct whilst walking around the lake, stopping for refreshments from the Park Café.