East Park
Sightseeing attraction | Hull | England | United Kingdom
Largest park in Hull
East Park in Hull, England, is the city's largest public park and one of the most significant attractions in East Riding of Yorkshire. Covering an area of approximately 49 hectares, it offers an impressive variety of nature, recreational activities, and historical elements that make it a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts. The park was opened on June 21, 1887, to coincide with Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, and is recognized as a Grade II listed site in the historic parks and gardens register. Located in the east of the city along Holderness Road, it serves as a green oasis amidst the urban surroundings of Hull.
Family-friendly activities in Hull
The origins of East Park date back to the 1880s, when the city council was looking for a counterpart to the already existing Pearson Park in the west. The land was acquired from a foundation, and construction began in 1886, with unemployed people from the region being employed to create jobs during a time of economic hardship. The original design was by landscape architect Joseph Fox Sharp, who created a versatile layout that has largely remained intact to this day. At its opening, large crowds paraded through the city to celebrate the new park, which was originally intended to be called "Victoria Park" but established itself under the name "East Park" – or simply "Park" for the residents of East Hull.
Historical attractions in East Riding
A central feature of the park is the Ferens Boating Lake, a large lake donated by Thomas Ferens in 1913 and later expanded. Here, visitors can rent swan boats or rowboats in the summer and enjoy the tranquil water surface teeming with ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. Another highlight is the Splash Boat, a historic water attraction dating back to 1929, designed by Charles Wicksteed. This Grade II listed slide, one of only two of its kind remaining in the country, attracts visitors by pulling boats up a slope and then shooting them back into the water – a nostalgic pleasure that is particularly popular with children.
Nature and recreation in East Park
The park also offers a variety of nature and garden areas. The Star Gardens impress with spectacular flower arrangements, while the Sensory Garden Boardwalk features sculptures and fragrant plants that appeal to the senses. The Mick Ronson Reflection Garden pays tribute to the famous Hull musician with a 2.4-meter high steel sculpture and is a peaceful place for contemplation. A special historical feature is the Khyber Pass, an artificial rock formation with a waterfall designed in the late 19th century, originally incorporating elements such as a watchtower and a door from the Great Exhibition, which are now lost.
Animal lovers in East Park
For animal lovers, there is a small wildlife enclosure with animals such as wallabies, deer, goats, and peacocks, as well as a walk-through aviary, a remnant of a £10.3 million restoration completed in 2008. This modernization, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, also brought an Animal Education Centre, a boathouse, and a community pavilion to the park. The Veterans Corner, featuring a steel sculpture, commemorates the victims of the world wars and subsequent conflicts and invites quiet reflection.
Recreational opportunities are abundant. A large playground with modern equipment, a youth area, and a free outdoor fitness area offer activities for all ages. The park features a network of paths winding through gardens, tree-lined avenues, and around the lake, ideal for walks or bike rides – an Adapted Cycling Centre provides specialized bicycles for people with disabilities. A model boat pond in the northwest is a paradise for enthusiasts, while regular events such as the Veterans Weekend with reenactments and music liven up the park.
Culinary options include a café in the main pavilion, which houses Hull's newest library, as well as a kiosk near the Splash Boat known for its creamy ice creams. The East Park Clock Tower, near the bandstand, is another landmark and point of reference. Despite some complaints about maintenance – such as damaged playground equipment or neglected areas – the park remains a vibrant place that combines its Victorian past with modern conveniences.
