Derby Arboretum
Derby Arboretum was England's first public park. It was given to the Town Council of Derby in 1835 by Joseph Strutt - a local cotton mill owner and first mayor of the Reformed Borough of Derby - to provide the people of Derby with a place for exercise and recreation.
John Claudius Loudon - a prolific horticultural writer and designer- was asked to design the park, and it was opened to the public in 1840. It has a unique heritage value and is included in the English Heritage Register of Parks and Gardens.
Derby Arboretum |
Derby Arboretum |
Derby Arboretum |
Derby Arboretum |
Today the park still has many of it's original features and buildings. It has been extented to accommodate new recreational facilities, without altering it's historical significance.
There are some notable trees in the park, alot fewer than when the park was first established but they do include the Red Oak, introduced from America, the Indian Bean Tree and the Silver Pendant lime.
There is a childrens play area containing a range of play equipment and toilets are situated in the centre of the Park.
The park is close to the city centre with entrances on Reginald Street and Arboretum Square, which is just off Osmaston Road behind the Royal Crown Derby factory.