The Famine Park of Bolton

Queen’s Park is one of the beautiful open spaces in Bolton, but did you know of its rich history? You’ve probably been for a walk through this beautiful Victorian park and passed the beautiful statues and stunning stone fountain right at its centre.

Queen’s Park is ‘Bolton’s most important Heritage Park being one of four parks built across the north west during the cotton famine of the 1860’s’ (Queen’s Park Bolton, unknown). The cotton famine ‘was a period of economic depression caused by [shortages] of raw cotton in the textile mills of Britain, primarily in Lancashire’ (Queen’s Park, Visit North West, 2025). Originally called ‘Bolton park’ (Queen’s Park, Visit North West, 2025) this park was specifically built in 1866, with the aim of giving people the space to enjoy their days in the fresh air, while also giving thousands of workers purpose as it ‘gave employment to many who would otherwise be destitute and […] provided a great amenity for Bolton’s Citizens’ (Queen’s Park Bolton, Unknown). According to the Greater Manchester Orienteering Activities website, the park is ‘a very interesting park to journey around! [With a] rich history […] [and] Victorian heritage [still] apparent […] in the ponds, fountain and iron footbridge’ (Queen’s Park, Visit North West, 2025). One of the main attractions for me, is the sunken garden which provides a tranquil and calming experience for all. The grounds are beautifully kept, with stunningly shaped patches of greenery allowing for a regimented, yet relaxed feel.