Three Northumberland parks near Newcastle shortlisted for UK’s Favourite Park 2022 - how to vote

Three Northumberland parks are in the running for the UK’s Favourite Parks 2022 award, which recognises the country’s most-loved communal green space.

The nominations for the UK’s Favourite Parks 2022 have been announced by Fields In Trust, an independent charity with more than 90 years of experience protecting parks and green spaces.

Since its launch  in 2015, the award has been given to three parks in the UK -  Stanley Park in Blackpool (2017, 2019), Telford Town Park (2015), and Rouken Glen Park in Glasgow (2015).

Although there are no parks shortlisted for the award in Newcastle, there is hope that other parks in the North East area will bring the title home.

What parks are listed from Northumberland and the North East area?

Carlisle Park 

Described as “beautiful diversity” and “fantastic” by the charity, the park is also “well cared for” and it is something for all age groups to enjoy.

The park, which receives 4.5 out of 5 ratings on Tripadvisor, is also praised for its “pristine condition”, wonderful enough to wander through at any point in the year.

According to reviewers, the William Turner garden is a must-see since it has a wide variety of flowers and plants on show.

There are also many paths, rivers, and trails inside the park that lead to Morpeth Castle and other nearby attractions.

Gallagher Park - Bedlington

The charity describes the park as a “great” play area, with equally “great” football fields and BMX track.

The park receives 4 out of 5 ratings on Tripadvisor, where most visitors praised its scenery as it is surrounded by many mature trees. There are also several different parts to the park offering, including dog walking, children’s play area and mountain biking.

Ridley Park

Described as “lovely” by the charity, the park has plenty to offer for children. The park also has a cafe with homemade food, with a “fabulous” water feature for children to play in.

On Tripadvisor, the park receives 4.5 out of 5 ratings, with visitors praising the park for its play spaces, flower beds and “pristine” war memorial.

Additionally, the park features an accessible, welcoming use of space, including a cafe with outdoor seating, a bird watching area, and a tennis court.

What is the UK’s Favourite Parks 2022 award?

The UK’s Favourite Parks 2022 award looks for parks that locals like visiting throughout the country.

The award is given to the local park that best meets the needs of the community and the nomination is open to all public green spaces in the UK.

The award comprises two phases. First, Fields In Trust asked the public to pick their favourite local park.

In the next round, any publicly accessible local green space was eligible for nomination during the June 9 to July 5 submission window.

Any park in the top 20% of nominees will be recognised as a Local Favourite.

How do I vote for my favourite local park?

You can vote by visiting the UK’s Favourite Parks website and selecting your favourite park.

Voting is open and will close at noon on Thursday, August 18, 2022.

The parks with the most votes in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will be declared National Favourites and then one overall winner will be crowned  UK’s Favourite Park 2022.