Williamson Park - Ashton Memorial and Butterfly House

Williamson Park comprises 54 acres of beautiful parkland with enchanting walks and play areas and breathtaking views to the Fylde Coast and the Lake District. The newly renovated tropical butterfly house, Mini-beasts, bird enclosure and small mammal section will fascinate all the family and add a touch of the exotic to a visit to Lancaster's leading tourist attraction. Enjoy the pleasant surroundings of the Pavilion Cafe or browse around our Gift Shop packed with all kinds of exciting gift ideas. Williamson Park includes the Ashton Memorial (a famous Edwardian folly on the skyline overlooking Lancaster, also newly renovated) which was a gift to the City from Lord Ashton, set within the parkland created by his father, James Williamson. The "structure", as it became known locally, was a memorial to Lord Ashton's second wife. The park was created out of the quarries from which came the stone for most of Lancaster's buildings. Inside the recently restored Memorial is the Williamson Gallery, with breathtaking views to the Fylde Coast and the Lake District. The Park is the venue for many exciting events and festivals throughout the year including concerts, art exhibitions, guided walks and the ever popular Dukes Theatre outdoor performance. THE CAFE IS OPEN OVER CHRISTMAS EXCEPT ON DEC 25 & 26 AND JAN 1