Wensum Park — Attraction in Norwich

I had the pleasure of visiting Wensum Park in Norwich today, and it was an absolute delight! Tucked away from the bustling city center, this hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

First and foremost, the park's natural beauty is simply breathtaking. The sprawling green fields, lush trees, and vibrant flowers create a picturesque setting that instantly puts you at ease. Walking along the serene riverbanks of the River Wensum, I felt a sense of calm and serenity wash over me. It's truly a sanctuary away from the urban chaos.

One of the highlights of Wensum Park is its well-maintained pathways and walking trails. Whether you're strolling hand-in-hand with a loved one, jogging for exercise, or simply taking a leisurely walk, the park offers a variety of paths to explore. The well-marked trails make it easy to navigate, ensuring you don't miss any of the park's hidden wonders.

For families, Wensum Park is an absolute dream. The expansive playground area boasts a wide range of equipment suitable for children of all ages. From swings and slides to climbing frames and sandpits, there's something to keep every little adventurer entertained. I also noticed several picnic tables scattered throughout the park, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a picnic with friends.

If you're a wildlife enthusiast, Wensum Park won't disappoint. The park is teeming with diverse bird species, and I had the pleasure of spotting several ducks, swans, and even a heron during my visit. It's a great place to bring your binoculars and indulge in some birdwatching.

Another commendable feature of Wensum Park is the excellent facilities it provides. Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are conveniently located, and there are also ample benches and seating areas throughout the park where you can take a break and soak in the surroundings.

Overall, I highly recommend Wensum Park to anyone visiting Norwich. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and tranquility. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or a fun-filled day with your loved ones, this park has it all. I can't wait to return and spend more time in this...

We love this park & visit a lot - my kids have even risked their lives on the old 20ft deathtrap slide that was taken down a few years back.

Like all Norwich parks, it's a throwback to the glory days of city outdoor spaces, and it's a little neglected but by no means shabby. You'll find the same architecture as the other main parks here, competently designed by a man named Sandwich - historical fact. Sadly it's a bit dilapidated here.

The river is the main feature & it's cool to feed the huge flock of birds - they're so well trained they eat out of your hand and catch bread.

We've had many 'Aldi picnics' in the summer here too - you can cut through past the river to the shops.

Like others have said, it's a shame the water no longer gets turned on in summer at either the kids pool or the slightly odd water feature at the other end. Given the state of public finances though, that's understandable - I'd rather see people eat.

Actually, what stands out at this park is the small number of homeless people & drinkers who either spend the day here or camp in the woods. This is why there are rats. Despite this though, it's a good park - people tolerate the drug dealing in Chapelfield Gardens after all.

If you like to walk you can cut through to either Andersons Meadow or Train Woods via the river, or even take in the nature reserve further up Marriott's Way without leaving the green spaces.

Small piece of trivia - there's a disused and buried swimming pool in the woods which you can still identify the walls of between...

I have read both high and low star ratings with interest, as there is truth on both sides. Having lived opposite the park for nearly 30 years, I have witnessed the ups and downs of its history. It is true that many of the fixtures and landmarks fell into disrepair, mainly due to significant funding cuts.

However, I am pleased to say that the local authority has since made considerable repairs and improvements to the park. It's also true that the park attracts a wide variety of wildlife, particularly seagulls, swans, ducks, and geese.

On the downside, a large number of ducks and geese naturally leads to a substantial amount of droppings. Additionally, feeding the birds tends to attract a community of rats and mice, which I used to frequently see emerging from beneath the decking to grab leftover food. Fortunately, the decking has been replaced with a tarmac path, effectively eliminating a habitat for the rats.

The park is a beautiful place to visit, especially during the summer with young children, allowing them to experience nature. It’s also an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the sunny weather. I visited the park today and noted the great efforts and improvements made by the council.

Overall, I believe a score between 4 and 5 would be a...