The Park
Rowntree Park was given to the people of York by Rowntree and Company at the close of the First World War as a memorial to all those members of the Company's staff who lost their lives or suffered during the War. The wrought iron gates at the Terry Avenue entrance were given by the Company in 1954 as a Second World War memorial.
The Park was especially designed to be a public park as well as a recreation ground and was essentially York's first municipal park. Since it was first laid out, many alterations have been carried out but the Park survives still in much the same form as it was first conceived. Its facilities are widely used by York residents and visitors to the City alike and it is the setting from time to time for special events.
The 10-hectare site combines a historical background with a high-quality, multi-functional recreational space. In 2003 a £1.8 million Heritage Lottery funded refurbishment of the park was completed with many historical features returned to their original condition. New features including a performance space and sculpture play trail have also been added.
The park also offers children's play areas and sporting facilities such as bowling, tennis courts, basketball court and skateboarding area.
Park history
In 2009 the Friends will be launching a project to compile a history of the Park since its creation in 1921. We already hold copies of a number of historic photographs of the Park, but more would be very welcome. We can have copies made if necessary at our expense. We are putting together a team to undertake this project, which will include archive research and oral history components. If anyone would like to become involved then please contact the Chairman. Our plans include publication of a book, a small exhibition for the Park cafe, and an enhanced web site.
The opening of the Park in 1921: 
The Park's outdoor swimming pool (now demolished): 