A gardener works in the glorious setting of Thompson Park.

From an article by Allan Halstead:
Hooliganism, controversy and drama have all had their place in the story of the development of Burnley's parks, which began just 100 years ago. Back in 1872 the local youngsters' were in different mood. It was recorded that because they were "rolling stones down Healey Heights and insulting passers-by they ruined everybody's pleasure and nearly put an end to the project of providing parks."

That first park was Healey Heights, now hardly considered a jewel among Burnley's public treasures, but in fact the very first public recreation ground for local folk who spent long hours in cotton mills and crowded terraced houses. In the days of wagonettes a day in the park was a treat, so much so that over 1,000 people flocked to Healey on the first Sunday afternoon in July 1872. Today Healey Heights are more appreciated by nearby youngsters as a playground. A sledge run and an exercise spot for dogs; with none of the sports facilities or floral features of its successors.

Before WW2 Burnley had five parks totalling nearly 211 acres and 25 recreation grounds or open spaces adding another 207. The article gives more information about the parks and their benefactors. Sir John Thursby gifted land for Queen's Park at Bank Hall (opened in 1893) and in 1906 presented land at Cronkshaw Meadow (where Prestige stands) for a park and station approach which was popular for 'field days'; Mr Scott gifted £10,000 for Scott Park (1895) and the land was acquired from the Halstead Family; Towneley Hall (1902) with more land at the Holmes (1925) from the Towneley family; Lord Shuttleworth gave 5 acres of land which together with 7 acres of land added by the corporation formed Ightenhill Park (1912); Lord Shuttleworth also gave land for Thursby Gardens (1913) and the Thornber Gardens were also established nearby; and Thompson Park from a bequest of £50,000 by James Whitham Thompson (1920). Since the war there has been even further expansion and development, which must put Burnley near the top of the league for its parks and open spaces.