Cheltenham Borough Council proudly announces that it now boasts eight Green Flag award-winning parks, thanks to the addition of Burrow’s Field in Leckhampton. Known for its lush landscapes and community spirit, Cheltenham’s green spaces continue to earn national acclaim.
Pittville Park, a favorite among locals and visitors alike, is famous for its scenic lake, café, expansive adventure playground, and small animal enclosure. But beyond this iconic park, Cheltenham and its surrounding villages offer a wealth of beautifully maintained green spaces that have also gained prestigious recognition.
This year, the Green Flag Award scheme celebrated its 30th anniversary by recognizing 2,391 sites across the country, maintaining its international reputation as the hallmark of excellence for parks and green spaces. Cheltenham successfully retained its seven existing Green Flags, with Burrow’s Field earning its first accolade.
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The full list of Cheltenham’s Green Flag parks includes Sandford Park, Hatherley Park, Montpellier Gardens, Naunton Park, Pittville Park, Springfields Park, Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens, and now Burrow’s Field. These join four award-winning sites in Gloucester and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.
Pittville Park has also retained the Green Heritage Site accreditation, supported by Historic England, acknowledging its diligent preservation of historic features.
Steve Harvey, Cabinet Member for Waste, Recycling and Green Open Spaces, expressed his pride: “Cheltenham’s eight Green Flag awards highlight the dedication of our green space team, Ubico staff, volunteers, and Friends groups who nurture these sites year-round. Our parks are vital for the wellbeing of residents and visitors, offering places to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. We’re especially thrilled to welcome Burrow’s Field to this distinguished list.”
Mark Beany of Leckhampton Rovers Football Club emphasized the community impact: “The partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council has transformed Burrow’s Field into a special place. It offers a safe, inviting space for the community to enjoy sports, socialize, and stay active.”
Burrow’s Field is a 6.3-hectare open space in Leckhampton, home to Cheltenham’s largest youth and minis football club, Leckhampton Rovers, and the Broadlands pre-school play group. The site features four adult football pitches, two cricket squares, a pavilion with café, a BMX pump track, and a playground. It’s also popular with dog walkers and ramblers, with excellent access to public rights of way and the surrounding countryside.
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, reinforced the importance of parks: “Parks are vital public spaces that foster wellbeing, community, and economic benefits. Yet, in many deprived areas, they often feel unsafe or unwelcoming. Investing in parks isn’t a luxury but a practical way to improve quality of life and support public health.”