Bandstand - Peasholme Park, Scarborough
The land on which Peasholm Park is built was originally the site of a medieval Manor House. By the early 20th century, the land was open fields used for farming and allotments. In 1911, Scarborough Corporation acquired land known as Tuckers Field from the Duchy of Lancaster to create a public park.
The Borough Engineer, Harry W Smith had the idea to develop the park in an oriental style. Japanese statues were purchased from Killerby Hall (now known as Flamingo Land) and exotic shrubs and flowers imported from the French Riviera home of a local retired banker. The park was officially opened on 19 June 1912 and quickly became a major attraction for visitors to the seaside town.
A further purchase of land in Peasholm Glen was made from the Duchy of Lancaster in 1921 and land on the east side of the glen in private ownership was donated to the Corporation. By 1932, the park had been extended along Peasholm Glen.
The park was used for aquatic displays, musical performances and evening firework displays. It became immensely popular in the immediate pre- and post-Second World War era. Most notable, was the introduction in 1927 of miniature naval warfare displays on the lake, something that continues to this day!
The unique floating bandstand is currently in use on weekdays for recitals by the resident organist during July and August as well as by the Scarborough Spa Orchestra and visiting performers during the summer months for spectacular firework concerts.
Bandstand - Peasholme Park, Scarborough
The land on which Peasholm Park is built was originally the site of a medieval Manor House. By the early 20th century, the land was open fields used for farming and allotments. In 1911, Scarborough Corporation acquired land known as Tuckers Field from the Duchy of Lancaster to create a public park.
The Borough Engineer, Harry W Smith had the idea to develop the park in an oriental style. Japanese statues were purchased from Killerby Hall (now known as Flamingo Land) and exotic shrubs and flowers imported from the French Riviera home of a local retired banker. The park was officially opened on 19 June 1912 and quickly became a major attraction for visitors to the seaside town.
A further purchase of land in Peasholm Glen was made from the Duchy of Lancaster in 1921 and land on the east side of the glen in private ownership was donated to the Corporation. By 1932, the park had been extended along Peasholm Glen.
The park was used for aquatic displays, musical performances and evening firework displays. It became immensely popular in the immediate pre- and post-Second World War era. Most notable, was the introduction in 1927 of miniature naval warfare displays on the lake, something that continues to this day!
The unique floating bandstand is currently in use on weekdays for recitals by the resident organist during July and August as well as by the Scarborough Spa Orchestra and visiting performers during the summer months for spectacular firework concerts.