The Walks is an historic urban park located in the heart of King’s Lynn, Norfolk. It is the only surviving 18th-century town walk in Norfolk. The park spans 17 hectares and features a blend of historical architecture, landscaped gardens, and modern amenities.
The Walks: Origins and Evolution
The concept of The Walks originated in the late 17th century, around 1686, as a single promenade designed to provide the citizens of King’s Lynn with a respite from the grime and bustle of the town centre. Unlike many parks that were later developed in the 19th century, The Walks was initially not conceived as a municipal park but as a place for leisurely strolls and social gatherings.
Over the centuries, The Walks evolved, incorporating various elements and expanding its layout. By 1930, it had largely taken on the form that is recognisable today. The park was designated a Grade II listed landscape by English Heritage in 1998, underscoring its historical and cultural significance.
The Walks: Key Historical Features
The Guannock Gate
Photo © James Rye 2021
This was originally part of King’s Lynn’s defences, which had been built up after the town fell to Parliamentarian forces in 1643. The Guannock Gate was a significant structure that formed part of the earth banks and ditches enclosing the town. Although the original gate was demolished in 1803, it was re-erected in 1816, adding an historical feature to The Walks.
The Bandstand
In the 1920s, an ornamental garden known as ‘Vancouver Island’ was developed, complete with an octagonal bandstand. This bandstand remains a popular feature, hosting regular Sunday concerts during the summer months. The 2007 renovations reinstated and developed this area.
Red Mount Chapel
Photo © James Rye 2021
The Red Mount Chapel in The Walks is one of King’s Lynn’s most iconic buildings. However, despite surviving over five and a quarter centuries it was mainly only used as a religious building for just over fifty years. The Red Mount Chapel was built between 1485 and 1537. It is now a Grade I listed building.
The Red Mount Chapel was built as a place where pilgrims could give thanks for a safe journey and pray as they embarked on their last few miles on their way to the shrine at Walsingham. Offerings at the chapel frequently exceeded those of other religious sites in the town.
The Avenues
The Avenues, planted between 1843 and 1906, are one of the most striking features of The Walks. These tree-lined paths, consisting of Lime, Horse Chestnut, and Plane trees, form the essential framework of the park’s designed landscape. The Walks derives its name from these prominent avenues.
St John’s Church
St John’s Church was opened in 1846 (contemporary with the Railway Station). Up until that time seats were purchased by rich families and there were not enough Anglican church seats in the town. And so the poor person’s Anglican Church was built. It provided 800 free places. The interior was fitted with comfortable open benches. The west end was supported by two buttresses in 1889. The vicarage was opened in 1871.
St James’ Park
in 1857, the St James’ workhouse was closed and the new burial ground re-planted and again improved. St James’ Park, enclosing the former workhouse burial ground and that of St Margaret’s, was laid out in 1902-03, with the headstones being relocated to a corner of the park. The present flower beds are deliberately raised, respecting the fact that they are over unmarked graves.
Framingham’s Almshouses
Framingham’s Hospital, originally built off Broad Street in the 1670s, was relocated to the present site in 1848. In medieval times when religious orders cared for the poor and provided hospitality and shelter. Later rich philanthropists, such as Henry Framingham, built almshouses to support the poor.
The Walks: Modern Restoration and Amenities
In 2007, a £4.3 million Heritage Lottery Fund restoration project was completed, which aimed to return The Walks to its former glory while adding modern amenities. The restoration included the enhancement of historical features, the addition of a children’s play area, a parkour unit, and a multi-use games area. These improvements have made The Walks a perfect blend of historical significance and contemporary utility.
© James Rye 2024
See also:
- The End of the Civil War in King’s Lynn
- The Red Mount Chapel in King’s Lynn
- Through Lynn to Walsingham
- The Poor Person’s Anglican Church: St John’s
Book a Walk with a Trained and Qualified King’s Lynn Guide
Sources
- https://www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/info/20067/parks_and_gardens/409/the_walks
- https://www.thewalks.uk/history-of-the-walks/
- https://www.kingslynncivicsociety.co.uk/pilgrimage/framingham-almshouses/
- https://www.kingslynncivicsociety.co.uk/pilgrimage/st-james-park/
- Hillen, H. (1907) History of the Borough of King’s Lynn Vol.2, EP Publishing Ltd
- Richards, P. (1990) King’s Lynn, Phillimore