The History of the House and Its Neighbourhood

Newsham Park in Liverpool has a rich history, particularly regarding the houses built within it. Designed by Sir Joseph Paxton, the same architect responsible for London's Crystal Palace. It was created to provide recreational space for the city's rapidly expanding population during the Industrial Revolution. The park itself was opened in 1868, and was the first of Liverpool’s great mid-Victorian public parks, as a result, the surrounding area became a desirable location for residential development.

The park spans approximately 121 acres (49 hectares) and is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, scenic views, and diverse amenities. Within its boundaries, visitors can find a range of features and facilities, including:

Formal Gardens: Newsham Park boasts beautifully landscaped gardens with lush greenery, flower beds, and ornamental features. These gardens provide a tranquil setting for leisurely walks, picnics, and gatherings.

Lakes: Two large lakes, known as Newsham Park Lake and Orchard Pond, are prominent features within the park. These bodies of water add to the park's natural beauty and support a variety of wildlife, including ducks, swans, and other waterfowl.

Sports Facilities: The park offers a range of sports facilities, including football pitches, tennis courts, and a bowling green. These amenities cater to sports enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, providing opportunities for recreation and physical activity.

Playground and Play Areas: Newsham Park features playgrounds and play areas equipped with modern equipment and structures for children to enjoy. These areas provide safe and engaging spaces for play and exploration.

Walking and Cycling Paths: The park is crisscrossed with walking and cycling paths, allowing visitors to explore its vast expanse on foot or by bike. These paths meander through wooded areas, open meadows, and along the lakeshores, offering scenic views and opportunities to connect with nature.

The houses built in Newsham Park were primarily constructed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with many being erected between the 1860s and 1920s. 

These houses were often spacious and grand, reflecting the architectural styles of the time, including Victorian and Edwardian designs. Originally, these houses were intended for Liverpool's affluent families, businessmen, and professionals who sought elegant homes close to the city centre but within the tranquillity of the park setting. 

The surrounding parkland provided a picturesque backdrop and recreational opportunities for residents. 

These properties boasted features such as large bay windows, decorative brickwork, and spacious gardens. Many of the houses were designed with multiple bedrooms, grand reception rooms, and servant quarters, reflecting the social norms of the era. 

Newsham Park, situated 10 minute drive from the Liverpool City Centre, has seen the construction of various notable properties over the years. Among these, some stand out for their historical significance or architectural splendour. 

One such property is the Grade II listed building known as "Newsham Park Hospital." Originally built in the late 19th century, around 1874, this imposing structure served as a hospital for infectious diseases, catering to Liverpool's growing population during a time of significant public health challenges. It played a crucial role in providing medical care during outbreaks of diseases such as smallpox and tuberculosis.

Another notable property is "Walton Hall," an elegant mansion situated within the park grounds. Built in the early 19th century, around 1820, this Georgian-style mansion was originally the residence of the Rathbone family, prominent merchants and philanthropists in Liverpool. The house and its extensive grounds were later donated to the city and transformed into a public park, becoming an integral part of Newsham Park's landscape.