Herschel Park
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| Herschel Park | |
|---|---|
.jpg) | |
 Interactive map of Herschel Park | |
| Type | Local Nature Reserve |
| Location | Slough, Berkshire |
| OS grid | SU 977 790 |
| Area | 4.2 hectares (10 acres) |
| Managed by | Slough Borough Council |
Herschel Park is a public park in Upton, a suburb of Slough in Berkshire. It is owned and managed by Slough Borough Council. It is in two adjacent areas. The larger area of 4.2-hectare (10-acre) in the north is a Local Nature Reserve.[1][2] The more formal area in the north is a Grade II listed park.[3]
History
The park has been in existence from at least 1843, when James Bedborough bought the land in the area and used it to build twenty-nine terraced houses and large villas that looked out over the park.[7] It is believed that Sir Joseph Paxton laid out the original park grounds.[7] The park when opened was called Upton Park.[8]
In 1949, the park was sold to Slough Borough Council.[9] In 1952 the council changed its name from Upton Park Pleasure Grounds to Herschel Park, after the astronomer Sir William Herschel.[10] In 1962–63, Slough Corporation purchased a further 10 acres from Eton College, which by 1982 had become part of Herschel Park.[10]
In 2000, the water in the lakes suddenly disappeared, and a group was set up called Friends of Herschel Park, who together with Slough Borough Council started to apply for funds to return the park to its original Victorian design.[11] In January 2009 the park was granted £2.7 million of council and lottery funding by the Heritage Lottery Fund.[9] In 2011 work was finished; the lakes were refilled with water, and the original paths were restored.[9]
In 2013, the site was declared as a local nature reserve by Slough Borough Council.[1]