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.

Advisory:

Please plan your route carefully. Restoration and repair of the Grade II listed Seymour Street bridge (near the Railway arches/ cafe end of Central Park) is due to begin this month (May 2026) and will continue for approximately three months, during which time the bridge may be closed. Dating back to 1895, the bridge is of architectural and historical interest in Chelmsford, and its long-term future is being ensured by making necessary repairs to its infrastructure.