Just a short stroll away from the shopping areas of the town, stands Caldecott Park. Why not explore and find some of its delights for yourself. Whether it's bowls, boule, pitch and putt, tennis, watching the children play, or just relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the park, there is something for interest for everyone.
The park was purchased for the people of Rugby by the Urban District Council in 1903, from the Harris sisters, granddaughters of Thomas Caldecott, the last Lord of the Manor. Opened to the public in 1904 and covering 9.8 acres, one of the early features was a small ornamental lake, complete with fountains; it was destined to be filled in during the 1920s.
During the 1930s the flower displays must have been quite spectacular. Several photographs show 3-D bedding displays close to where the nursery now stands. Interestingly, this form of bedding is now being revived by several councils throughout the country.
Probably the best known feature in the park today is the bandstand. It is believed to have been built around 1905. Bands played regularly on Sunday evenings for many years.
The War years saw the disappearance of the iron railings, surrounding the park, a local firm removing them for the War effort. The princely sum of 25 shillings (£1.25) a ton being offered in compensation.
Today's floral displays may not be on such a grand scale as the floral staircase, but for those who just wish to sit and relax the seasonal displays are particularly eye catching; indeed they have been highly commended by the judges in the Britain in Bloom competition.
Throughout all these changes the park has always retained its own special charm and character, and any future changes will be designed to ensure that this continues long after the park's 100th birthday in 2004!!
Perhaps you have a particular memory of the park. Did you know that the swings were chained up on a Sunday for observance of the Lord's Day.
Caldecott Park is open everyday from 7.30am until dusk. The Park's Patrol and Games attendant has an office near the tennis courts, and during the games season will be there to ensure your visit to the park is a pleasant one.