Waterloo Park, Norwich

Waterloo Park, a Grade II* listed public park in Norwich, is a prime example of 1930s municipal park design. Originally established in 1904 as the Catton Recreation Ground, the park was renamed Waterloo Park and later transformed in 1933 under the direction of Captain Arnold Sandys-Winsch, Norwich's City Parks and Gardens Superintendent. The redesign utilized government funding for unemployment relief, creating a stunning 18-acre space lauded as the finest in East Anglia.

The park features an Art Deco pavilion, a bandstand, pergolas, and gates, all crafted with reconstituted stone, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. Notable for its stylistic unity with other Norwich parks, the layout of Waterloo Park has remained largely intact since its 1930s redesign. While some features, such as the school garden and central garden moat, have been removed, new facilities like the children's Splash Pad, added in 2024, ensure its relevance for modern visitors.

Among its key attractions is one of the UK's longest herbaceous borders, now planted with sustainable perennials and bushes, reflecting the ecological planting principles championed by historical horticulturists William Robinson and Gertrude Jekyll. The park also offers hardcourt tennis courts, a playground, and open areas previously used for cricket and hockey.

The pavilion, initially a focal point of community gatherings, served as a temporary mortuary during World War II, a somber reminder of its wartime role. Restored in 2000 and reopened as a café in 2017, the pavilion continues to be a centerpiece of the park's vibrant community space. Accessibility improvements have made the park fully navigable for disabled visitors.

Waterloo Park’s commitment to preservation and enhancement has earned it Green Flag status from 2021 to 2023 and its first Green Heritage award in 2023. With a rich history, timeless design, and modern amenities, Waterloo Park remains a cherished landmark of Norwich’s green spaces.