History
Hare Hill Park has an interesting history.
Key Takeaways:
- Hare Hill Park, a traditional Victorian park in Littleborough, has a rich history intertwined with that of Hare Hill House.
- Originally home to the Newall family, Hare Hill House later served as the Town Hall for Littleborough Urban District Council and offices for Rochdale Council.
- The park boasts many Grade II listed features, including a bandstand and a water wheel.
The park is in Littleborough, Greater Manchester is a traditional Victorian park. It boasts many original features and offers a variety of leisure facilities. The park sits “snugly” in the heart of the Littleborough community. The history of the park is intertwined with Hare Hill House, which can be found within the park grounds.
The Newall Family
Hare Hill House was built by the Newall Family in 1775. This prominent local family occupied the house for four generations, until 1900. The Newalls played a significant role in Littleborough’s development, contributing to its growth as a thriving Pennine town for 14 generations. In 1900, the Newall family beneficiaries sold Hare Hill House and its grounds to Littleborough Urban District Council (UDC).
A New Era for Hare Hill House
Initially, the UDC paid the Newall family £323.19s.8d annually for the property. However, in 1901, Hare Hill House became the home of the UDC. This marked the beginning of the house’s transformation into a centre for local government and community services.
Littleborough Library
In 1903, Littleborough Library was added to Hare Hill House. This was made possible thanks to a generous gift of £2,600 from Andrew Carnegie. The library continues to operate in the building today, situated at 27 Town House Road, Littleborough OL15 9BG. You can find more information about the library on the Rochdale Borough Council website.
The Impact of World War Two
During World War Two, Hare Hill House served a vital purpose. The house’s cellar was used as an air raid shelter for officers. Remarkably, an original air filter from 1939 still remains in the cellar. Volunteers discovered that the only other surviving air filter of its kind is housed in the Imperial War Museum.
Local Government Reorganisation
In 1974, local government reorganisation led to the dissolution of the UDC. Consequently, Hare Hill House and the park were transferred to Rochdale Council. Rochdale Council continued to use the house until 2010.
The MoorEnd Development Trust
After lying vacant for three years, Hare Hill House was taken over by the MoorEnd Development Trust in 2013. This local charity aimed to create a Community Art and Enterprise centre. Their vision was to provide a much-needed community heritage asset for the people of Littleborough.
The Hare Hill Heroes
The MoorEnd Development Trust, with its project champion Nick Andrews, have worked tirelessly to refurbish the building. A group of dedicated volunteers, known as the Hare Hill Heroes, have played a crucial role in this restoration. Thanks to their efforts, many original features have been uncovered, including a centuries-old fresco and original hearth tiles.
A Creative Community Hub
Today, Hare Hill House is a vibrant community hub. Part of the house is occupied by small businesses. These include an accountant, surveyor, councillors, an IT company, artists, and crafters. Additionally, a wide range of community groups meet at the house on a weekly basis. There is also a quarterly artisan market each season. Hare Hill House truly embodies the spirit of community and collaboration.
Hare Hill Park Today
Hare Hill Park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. It is a Green Flag park with many Grade II listed features. Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities, including:
- Formal gardens
- Play areas
- A skateboard park
- Bowling greens
- A bandstand
- A listed water wheel
The park also offers stunning views over the surrounding hills.
Friends of Hare Hill Park
The Friends of Hare Hill Park are a dedicated group who work hard to maintain the park’s beauty and heritage. They have successfully secured over £250,000 for restoration projects, allowing visitors to appreciate the park’s original features. Their efforts ensure that the park remains a treasured green space for generations to come.
FAQs
1. What are the opening times?
Hare Hill Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Is there parking available nearby?
Yes, there is free onsite parking at Hare Hill Park. The car park is located off Hare Hill Road by the bowling green.
3. Are there accessible facilities at the park?
Yes, it has a range of accessible facilities. More information about accessibility can be found on the Rochdale Borough Council website.
4. How can I get involved with the Friends of Hare Hill Park?
You can contact the Friends of Hare Hill Park through their Facebook page, which provides information about volunteering opportunities and ways to support the park.
