Tichfield Park (1)

C1899 further footpaths had been added and a bandstand had been implemented. At this time there are no details of ornamental design of the gardens but it is apparent that the park was subject to some form of design around this period. 1903 the paths were re-coated with Trent gravel, oak tree and a quantity of trees and shrubs were planted. Gates were fixed to each end of the bridges to shut of the ornamental parts when required. During the Edwardian period the Bowling Green and paddling pool were added. From 1880 the park was either known as the ‘Water Meadows’ or ‘Nottingham Road Pleasure Grounds’. In 1914, the Duke of Portland’s son, the Marquis of Titchfield came of age and to mark the occasion the park was given to the Mansfield Corporation, and renamed ‘Titchfield Park’. In 1917 a Patriotic Fair was held in the park and was opened by Winifred, Sixth Duchess of Portland. The design of the park at this time had increased, additional paths had been added and considerably more planting followed them in lines, formal and informal, a shelter had been installed near the Bowling Green, no development however had taken place between the Cattle Market and the more formal areas of the park, this area was reserved for Horse Fairs. After the Great War the War Savings Association offered a tank to the town, the tank was installed at Titchfield Park. During the early 20’s plans were put forward to enlarge the park (this would involve some cottages to be demolished) the debate took several years but in 1926 the park was finely enlarged. Around this time a tennis court was also implemented. No damage to the park occurred during the Second World War, due to the size of the park, VE celebrations were held there. A greenhouse was implemented for plan propagation and in 1951 the bandstand was demolished. Further changes have occurred to the boundary of the Park, namely the ceasing of the cattle market and the implementation of the Water meadows centre on the site, this has significantly altered the character of the park on this boundary. The tennis court was realigned and car parking and minimal landscaping introduced on the eastern boundary to soften the impact of the large building. (2)

<1> Notts Historic Gardens Trust, 1995-1997, Notts Historic Parks and Gardens Files (Unpublished document). SNT4553.

<2> Mansfield District Council, 2004, Mansfield District Council Local List (Published document). SNT5967.