Cheltenham Borough Council proudly announces that the number of Green Flag award-winning parks in the area has risen to eight with the addition of Burrow’s Field in Leckhampton. This new recognition reflects the growing commitment to maintaining and enhancing the borough’s cherished green spaces.
While Pittville Park remains a well-loved highlight, with its picturesque lake, café, expansive adventure playground, and small animal enclosures, Cheltenham and its surrounding villages boast a variety of other nationally recognized parks. This year, 2,391 sites across the UK were honored with Green Flag Awards as part of the scheme’s 30th anniversary.
Cheltenham retained its seven existing Green Flags at Sandford Park, Hatherley Park, Montpellier Gardens, Naunton Park, Pittville Park, Springfields Park, and Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens, now welcoming Burrow’s Field to the list. Additionally, four green spaces in Gloucester and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal have also earned the prestigious award.
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The Green Flag Award is internationally recognized as a benchmark for excellence in parks and green spaces management. Notably, Pittville Park has further distinguished itself by achieving Green Heritage site status, endorsed by Historic England for its exemplary preservation of historic features.
Council cabinet member Steve Harvey, responsible for waste, recycling, and green open spaces, praised the achievement: “Seeing eight Green Flag awards in Cheltenham is a testament to the dedication of our green space teams, Ubico staff, volunteers, and Friends groups. Our parks contribute significantly to the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike, offering places to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. Burrow’s Field’s first-time inclusion is a proud moment for all involved.”
Mark Beany from Leckhampton Rovers Football Club highlighted the community impact: “Our partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council has transformed Burrow’s Field into a special place. It offers a safe, welcoming environment for community members to enjoy sport, social gatherings, and outdoor activity.”
Burrow’s Field spans approximately 6.3 hectares in Leckhampton and serves as the home ground for Cheltenham’s largest youth and mini football club, Leckhampton Rovers, alongside the Broadlands pre-school playgroup. Its facilities include four adult football pitches, two cricket squares, a pavilion with a café, a BMX pump track, and a play area. It is also a favored spot for dog walkers and ramblers, featuring strong links to local public rights of way and the surrounding countryside.
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag award manager at Keep Britain Tidy, emphasized the vital role of parks: “Parks are crucial public assets that support community wellbeing and local economies. Yet many, especially in deprived areas, do not feel safe or welcoming. Investing in parks is a practical and preventative measure that profoundly enhances quality of life.”