'Largest' park's history restored

More money is need to fully restore Heaton Hall

New visitor facilities have been unveiled in the latest stage of a project to restore the largest municipal park in Europe.

The 640-acre Heaton Park in Manchester provides about a quarter of the city's green space.

The park's historic buildings have been restored, its lake refurbished, a new play area built and improvements made to park's tram track.

The project has been made possible by a £8m Heritage Lottery Fund grant.

The park is home to ten listed buildings, including the Grade One listed Heaton Hall which has already undergone some restoration.

Smithy Lodge will be available for holiday lets

The area around the historic building has been cleared, opening up its views and making it more accessible to visitors.

A group has been set up to push for funding for further work.

The tram track has been improved, with visitors able to travel from the tram museum round to the lake, where a new cafe has opened and rowing boats can be hired.

The Grand and Smithy Lodges at the park have been restored, with Smithy open for weddings and holiday lettings. Heaton Hall is already licensed for wedding ceremonies.

Councillor Mark Hackett, executive member for Leisure and Culture at Manchester City Council, said: "This is a milestone for parks and green spaces not only in Manchester, but throughout the UK.

"It is wonderful to see Heaton Hall in its magnificent and original setting. It presents one of the finest views in England."