Hillingdon Council has unveiled an exciting new audio trail at Cranford Park, designed to highlight the park’s rich historical and wildlife features. This interactive experience allows visitors to explore the site through a guided tour, providing insights into the area’s unique heritage and natural beauty.
The trail spans approximately one mile and is marked by ten strategically placed trail markers. Each marker highlights a significant aspect of Cranford Park’s history or its diverse wildlife. From ancient landscape features and architectural marvels to the vibrant presence of kingfishers along the River Crane, the trail offers a comprehensive look at what makes this park special.
To begin the tour, visitors simply scan a QR code located on the introductory panel on the western wall of the new café building. This QR code opens the audio trail in a web browser on their mobile phone, providing a seamless way to start the adventure. The web link includes not only the audio narration but also photos and a transcript, making it accessible to all visitors.
The tour takes about an hour to complete and covers various key features of the park. Participants will explore the walled garden, community orchard, meadow, and riverside areas. Additionally, they will encounter historical structures such as the ‘ha-ha’ and the site of the old ice house.
This initiative is part of Hillingdon Council’s extensive £4.6 million restoration project of Cranford Park, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Recent improvements also include a newly opened children’s playground, restored main stable building, and refurbished cellars, enhancing the park’s appeal for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport said: “We’re committed to preserving the rich heritage of our borough for future generations and publicising our notable historic sites like Cranford Park, to bring more visitors to Hillingdon.
“With the new audio trail and recently-opened playground, Cranford Park offers something for families, history fans and nature lovers to enjoy.
“This audio guide can be accessed at any of the trail markers, so you can explore in whatever order you prefer, or depending on where you access the park.”
