Winter birdlife

The park is beautiful this time of year and is the ideal time to spot the array of birds we have in residence. If you are coming for a walk over the festive period you are likely to spot a huge variety of birds including kingfishers, robins, goldfinch, gold crests, tree creepers, nuthatches, jays, wrens, mistle thrush, great spotted woodpeckers, herons and the odd cormorant to name a few. It is also the ideal opportunity to see the development in the restoration works which are due to be complete by the summer next year.

Restoration update

Work has now started on repairing and restoring the ornamental bridge over the canal. The boarding has been removed and you can now see the work required to return it to it formal glory.

We are really lucky to have the Cauldon Canal passing through the park. When the park was first conceived the canal was seen as an industrial eyesore and a lot of planning went into hiding it from view.

If you stand outside the pavilion, the canal isn’t visible as it passes through the park just few metres from the terrace garden. It is estimated that 20,000 holiday makers pass through the park annually on narrow boats and it is hoped that once the restoration is complete they will moor up in the park and take refreshments in the new café.

Events and activities in December

Sunday 9 December: The Alice Charity Santa Dash

To get you in the festive spirit the Alice Charity is holding its annual 5K Santa Dash in the park on Sunday 9 December to raise money for vulnerable children.

The warm up is from 10.30am with the race starting at 11am.

All are welcome to participate whether you wish to walk, jog or run.

There will also be Christmas crafts, hot food and drink, Christmas music by Audley Brass Band and a little bit of snow at the finish line.

Entry is £25 for adults (age 14+) and free for everyone under 14. Entry fee includes a Santa suit.

Click here to book your place and for more information.

Saturday 9am: Hanley Park Parkrun

Don’t forget that throughout the festive period the Parkrun will be happening in the park (weather permitting) every Saturday morning at 9am.

Meet at the start near the bandstand in the centre of the park. If it is your first time, you will be required to register before you arrive.

Click here to find out more and details on how to register.