Queen Elizabeth Park in Grantham offers around 23 acres of inviting riverside parkland along the River Witham, stretching from Harrowby Mill in the north down to Belton Lane. The park was once privately owned grazing fields until the local council purchased the land in 1979. It opened to the public in November 1980 and was named in honour of the Queen Mother’s 80th birthday. This peaceful green space features extensive woodland areas, a conservation pond and meadow, a riverside walking path linked to the town’s network, and a fishing pond used by local anglers. A Diamond Grove was planted in 2012 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee—sixty silver birch trees arranged in a symbolic diamond shape with a native oak at the centre. Along the entry route visitors will spot The Peg, a carved wooden sculpture installed in recent years, adding a touch of local art at the park entrance.
Under the Witham/Slea Blue Green Corridor initiative, the park now includes a newly created wetland and wildflower meadow habitat that welcomes aquatic wildlife, birds and pollinators. Volunteers from local groups and environmental organisations help maintain these areas through regular meadow clearance and biodiversity monitoring. The park has held Green Flag status for multiple consecutive years in recognition of its quality and wellmanaged public value. Queen Elizabeth Park hosts a variety of free community events, including gentle “Friends Amblers” led walks, art workshops, family-friendly Art in the Park days with clay and watercolor activities, and volunteer working parties focused on habitat care. Many of these events are run by the Friends of Queen Elizabeth Park in partnership with the council.
The park includes picnic areas, riverside benches, children’s play zones with natural elements, cycle paths, and accessible parking. It’s particularly popular with dog walkers, joggers and families looking for a quiet but scenic spot close to the town centre. With its blend of nature restoration, public art, seasonal events, and well-preserved green corridors, Queen Elizabeth Park has become a cherished outdoor retreat in Grantham.
Photos courtesy of South Kesteven District Council and Facebook
