Witton Park

The park has a whole range of habitats and their associated wildlife.

Wetlands

• the River Darwen and River Blakewater both run through the park
• numerous streams and ponds, including an ornamental lily pond
• marsh and wet meadow lands alongside the River Darwen.

All these support a range of water loving species.

A riverside walk has been created which enables everyone to access some of these wetland features of the park.

Woodlands

The woodland covering many acres is mixed in nature, being ancient, semi-natural or from original plantations which have developed over the years.

The area surrounding Witton House was originally planted as a formal garden. Like many other Victorians, their estate plantings reflected their wealth. Many of the trees that we take for granted today would be recent introductions at the beginning of the 19th century.

At a time when foreign travel was difficult, British 'plant-hunters' introduced trees and shrubs to these shores from all over the world. Also, many different ornamental species were planted in the heyday of the Feilden family.

Open parkland

The open grass areas near the car park are good for family activities. With mature trees scattered around the area, it is a great spot to connect to the environment. It is well placed near the playground and car park.

Farmland

There is one working farm within the country park. As the farm is centrally placed, there are several footpaths enabling access from the visitor centre and show field through the farm fields up to Billinge Hill and woods at the top end of the park.

All these habitats provide homes for a whole variety of birds, mammals and insects.