When Keighley achieved municipal borough status in 1882, its new town council instituted a period of civic improvements, including the provision of public parks – three within six years.
First, opened in 1888, came Devonshire Park, on nine acres presented by the Duke of Devonshire. Its sloping site was crowned by a terrace promenade commanding “a magnificent view of the valley of the Aire, with Rombalds Moor in the distance”. Other features were a bandstand and the “ornamental serpentine lake”, seen here with Cliffe Castle beyond.
Then, 1891 saw the opening of the 15-acre Lund Park, the gift of James Lund of Malsis Hall at Glusburn. Highlight there was a “magnificent” fountain.
Victoria Park, opened in 1893, occupying the grounds of Eastwood House, and was purchased by public subscription, although Henry Isaac Butterfield, of Cliffe Castle, contributed half – £5,250 – in return for the closure of Dark Lane.
A Science and Art Exhibition, in the courtyard of Eastwood House, was to be the basis for Keighley’s original museum.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article