Salford City Council is excited to announce the return of nine new sculptures on the popular ‘Fairy Tale Trail’ at its Green Flag Award winning Clifton Country Park. These sculptures, featuring animals, mythical characters, and a fairy house, have been installed on the original route after the previous ones were stolen earlier this year.
The sculptures were originally funded with the help of the Friends of Clifton Country Park. It has been a favourite among families and children since it opened in 2017. The new sculptures are set to restore the fun and magic of the trail.
Councillor Bentham, Lead Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment and Community Safety, said:
“We’re thrilled to restore the Fairy Tale Trail. We’re dedicated to maintaining our parks and green spaces, and even though we faced the challenge of the stolen sculptures, we’re proud to have replaced them quickly. The Fairy Tale Trail is a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors, and it’s wonderful to see everyone enjoying the park again.”
Visitors have already started sharing their excitement about the new sculptures. Rangers at the park report that the community is delighted to see the trail back in full. A park ranger added, “We’ve had many happy visitors, especially the younger ones, who are thrilled to see the sculptures back.”
With the sunny weather, now is the perfect time for families to visit Clifton Country Park, enjoy the fresh air, and explore the Fairy Tale Trail.
Clifton Country Park – The Gruffalo
Clifton Country Park – Eagle
Clifton Country Park – Mine Workers
Clifton Country Park
Clifton Country Park – Gruffalo
Clifton Country Park – Signage
Clifton Country Park – Mine Staircase
Clifton Country Park – The Lake
Clifton Country Park – Mine Staircase
Clifton Country Park – The Fox
Clifton Country Park – The Lady Bug
Clifton Country Park – Trail RangersClifton Country Park, located in the Irwell Valley near Salford, Greater Manchester, is a scenic 119-acre nature reserve that features woodlands, meadows, and a lake. The park’s origins and development are closely tied to its mining heritage, particularly the Wet Earth Colliery.
The history of Clifton Country Park dates back to the 18th century when the area was predominantly used for coal mining. The Wet Earth Colliery, established around 1740, was one of the earliest deep mines in the Irwell Valley. A significant figure in the park’s industrial heritage is James Brindley, an engineer known for designing an innovative hydraulic pumping system to manage flooding in the mines. This system became crucial for the efficient operation of the Wet Earth Colliery.
In addition to its mining history, the park also features Fletcher’s Canal, constructed to facilitate the transport of coal from the collieries to Manchester. This canal, completed in the late 18th century, was another engineering marvel of its time and played a vital role in the region’s industrial development.
Today, Clifton Country Park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike with the fairytale trail being especially popular with younger children and their families. Visitors can explore the remnants of its industrial past, such as the colliery ruins and the canal, while enjoying various recreational activities like walking, fishing, and bird watching. The park also includes sculptures from the Irwell Sculpture Trail, adding an artistic element to the natural and historical landscape.
