Among Bath’s many picturesque spots, Henrietta Park stands out as a serene oasis perfect for relaxation. Awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for the third consecutive year, this historic seven-acre park is nestled in the heart of Bath and provides a welcome escape from the city’s rush.
Established in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, Henrietta Park boasts a lush landscape filled with mature trees, fragrant flowers, charming shrubberies, and a rose-covered pergola. Visitors can also explore a tranquil sensory garden designed to engage the senses and soothe the soul.
A notable feature of the park is the Memorial Garden dedicated to King George V, created in 1937. Although the garden underwent redesigning in the 1950s, its original commemorative plaque remains, honoring the memory of the late king.
READ MORE: Taunton Rallies Amid Local Shop Closures with New Business Growth and Community Spirit
READ MORE: Weston-super-Mare Faces Challenges but Hopes for Revival Remain Strong
This year, Henrietta Park was one of six parks in the Bath and North East Somerset area to receive the Green Flag Award, an internationally recognized symbol of excellence for well-managed parks and green spaces. Other awardees included Bloomfield Green, Hedgemead Park, Royal Victoria Park, Sydney Gardens, and Haycombe Cemetery, the latter assessed through a unique ‘mystery shop’ inspection.
Visitors on TripAdvisor have praised Henrietta Park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Many regard it as their favorite green space in Bath, often preferring it over the more tourist-frequented Royal Victoria Park. One enthusiast shared, “The seating around the pond is a gorgeous spot, especially in summer. I always bring friends here because it feels like a hidden gem.” Another remarked, “While Victoria Park attracts many tourists due to its location near the Royal Crescent, Henrietta Park remains a beautiful and peaceful refuge just a short walk from Bath’s main streets.”
Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, emphasized the importance of such spaces: “Our residents truly value these green havens, which offer places to unwind and connect with nature. We are devoted to maintaining and enhancing our parks, ensuring they remain welcoming and well-managed for both people and wildlife.” She also expressed gratitude to the dedicated Friends groups, volunteers, and council teams who contribute to the parks’ ongoing success and recognition.
Across Somerset, a total of 21 sites earned Green Flag Awards this year, an accolade that sets the benchmark for excellence in parks and green space management worldwide. The award reflects a commitment by land managers, local authorities, and volunteers to uphold high standards in environmental care and community amenity.
Erika Diaz Petersen, Historic England’s Principal National Landscape Adviser, highlighted the vital role of heritage within green infrastructure. “Winning this award showcases how well these spaces support both people and nature while offering resilience against climate challenges,” she said. “We are proud to collaborate on Green Heritage Site Accreditation, recognizing those Green Flag winners who not only maintain their parks to high standards but also celebrate and preserve their rich heritage.”
Henrietta Park’s blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community care makes it a standout destination for residents and visitors alike seeking tranquility in the heart of Bath.