1895 - The Queens Park

Castleford District Council acquired thirteen acres of land on Redhill, part of which was a joint gift from the Earl of Crewe and John Davidson Bland. The park, which was to have been named the Victoria Park, was opened in 1887 and named Queens Park in honour of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.

Sited high on the parks summit once stood the prominent landmark known as the White House or the Castle ruins. Local legend has it that these were the ruins of the Castle in Castleford; unfortunately they were nothing more glamorous than an old cottage. It is also claimed that this was the site where Oliver Cromwell placed his artillery during the siege of Pontefract Castle. The area below the hill is Wheldale Road, which is commonly known as Wheldon Lane. It is a little known fact, which must be true because my dad told me, that Cromwell's main gunner was called Lane and after a piece of particularly good shooting Cromwell called to the man, "Well done Lane" and it is from this that the area got its name.

The bandstand was erected in 1900 and proved to be a popular venue for entertainment. Until the 1950's Brass Bands could be heard there every Sunday throughout the summer months but are now restricted to four or five events a year. Bowling greens were opened in 1909 to be followed later by tennis courts.

To this day the park is a pleasure to visit and despite all the local government cutbacks, vandalism and theft (someone even stole a park bench) it still appears to thrive. The 'Friends of the Park' run a café, toilets and information centre located next to the bowling green near the tennis courts that is open most afternoons. The tea room contains many photos of old Castleford and plenty of good company. They are also hoping to open a 'Wildlife Reserve' in the very near future and new members are always welcome. Phone 07878-550977 for more details.

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