With spring upon us, it’s a great chance to explore Gosport’s green spaces. Here are four seasonal highlights to explore this weekend:

Crescent Gardens, Alverstoke

This Green-Flag public was originally designed in the 19^th century and includes a small fountain featuring Neo-Classic dolphins, some magnificent old trees including a Black Mulberry tree planted to mark Operation Overlord. It’s looked after by a partnership of the Friends of Crescent Garden and Gosport Borough Council. Why not pop into their Friends’ Plant Sale on Saturday 17 May, 10.00am – 4.00pm.

Stanley Park, Stokes Bay

Some of the trees in Stanley Park are over 150 years old, making it a perfect home to birdlife like woodpeckers and sparrowhawks. It’s a peaceful setting to remember loved ones and enjoy the Italianate Garden and pinetum. It’s looked after by a partnership of the Friends of Stanley Park and Gosport Borough Council. 

Walpole Park, town centre

This popular park with a children’s play area and two boating lakes, also hosts flower beds, shrub borders and open space. Walpole Park is a great spot for a picnic, and to watch the boats go by. Formerly part of the rampart fortifications and moats that circled the old town of Gosport, look out for the annual funfair and summer events held in the park over the summer. 

Wildgrounds nature reserve 

This nature reserve is recognised for the wonderful wildlife that calls it home – including the rare purple emperor butterfly and stag beetles. Some of the ancient oak woodland dates back around 500 years. Look out for a purple carpet of bluebells over the next few months. To protect the wildlife, no dogs other than assistance dogs are allowed on site.