Countess of Chester Country Park, Chester

The Countess of Chester Country Park in Upton, Chester, is a serene green space spanning 19 hectares, seamlessly blending countryside tranquility with urban accessibility. Located adjacent to the Countess of Chester Hospital, the park stands as a testament to environmental restoration and community effort, having transformed a former landfill site into a flourishing habitat for wildlife and a hub for recreational activities.

Gifted to The Land Trust in 2012, the park was developed with grants from WREN, Natural England, and others, creating pathways that connect Chester's town center, hospital, and the Shropshire Union Canal. Designed by John Seiler, it opened in June 2014 and was inaugurated by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, in September.

The park is more than just a green space; it is a haven for health and well-being. It hosts a variety of activities including an outdoor gym, guided health walks, and the popular Chester Parkrun every Saturday morning. The inclusion of a memorial forest allows visitors to plant trees in remembrance of loved ones, further fostering its connection to the community and nature.

The park’s wetlands, meadows, and woodlands are teeming with wildlife. Visitors might spot a Kingfisher diving, a Heron hunting, or a Kestrel soaring. Butterflies like the Common Blue and Red Admiral brighten summer, while woodlands shelter birds like the Woodpecker and Sparrowhawk. The wetlands also serve as a vital sanctuary for endangered toads.

The Countess of Chester Country Park is a haven connecting city life to nature. Since opening, it has partnered with schools and volunteers to create wildflower meadows, boosting bird and butterfly populations. In 2020, a Nature Reserve, part of Chester Zoo’s Wildlife Connections project, was added. With accessible paths, thriving biodiversity, and community initiatives, the park invites visitors to exercise, unwind, or enjoy wildlife, from spotting kestrels to joining a Parkrun.