Open spaces and play areas
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From formal gardens to wild areas which are a haven for wildlife, we hope there's something for everyone to enjoy in our open spaces. The open spaces marked with a star* all have children's play equipment. Please note this list is currently limited to areas of responsibility for the Town Council - there are other pretty areas around Marlborough and Manton to enjoy too, in many cases thanks to our wonderful communities who look after their neighbourhoods for all to enjoy (and which have resulted in Marlborough being awarded 'gold' two years running by South West in Bloom). We'll get out and about with our camera and add more locations soon.
Another open space and play area at Rabley Wood is closed due to forthcoming development work. We'll let you know when it reopens.
Many of our open spaces can be hired for charity events, festivals, funfairs, car boot sales, sports events and more.
Open an online map then click on any item for location
Given to the borough by King John (reigned 1196 to 1216) as pasture for livestock and used today for sport and recreation - a popular spot for dog walking with around 10 acres of open space to enjoy
A peaceful, natural environment between the Cemetery and the Rugby Clubhouse on the Common. Click the image for more details.The
Friends who look after it have been recognised by South West in Bloom for their natural, seasonal planting
Riverside park in the town centreWith benches, picnic tables, a children's play area (opened 2018) as well as open grassy areas for picnics, games, dog walking or just to sit and watch the ducks
Open space designated as a village green
It is believed the Saxon settlement that became Marlborough began here - now an open space surrounded by listed buildings
In the pretty village of Manton, this riverside open space is just under 2 acres in total with benches, play equipment for children up to 12 years old and football goalposts. Dogs welcome
Orchard Road*
There are swings and play equipment for children under 12 in this neighbourhood play area
Plume of Feathers
Tucked away off London Road, this very peaceful small garden (formerly allotments) is leased to the Richmond Fellowship who keep it looking beautiful for everyone to enjoy
Formal riverside garden just off the High Street
A large open space with amenities including football pitches, a skate park and a children's play area with equipment to suit all ages from the very young through to a zipwire and other equipment for more adventurous, older kids
Located at Salisbury Road Recreation Ground, there's a decent selection of obstacles, and the surfaces are smooth and fast, making it a great place to come whether your are a beginner or more experienced skater
Water meadow on the eastern edge of town running alongside the River Kennet with open grass, scrub, wild and conservation areas, a wetland, reed beds, boardwalks and a pond dipping platform - a great place to spot wildlifeOwnership and management is shared with local conservation group
Action for the River KennetDownload a brochure here
A favourite spot for picnicking (and wedding photos!) and with great views over the High Street and beyond, St Mary's Churchyard is a redundant church yard, now a small public park
Tin Pit
An open space bordering the River Og, accessed via Rabley Wood or the footpath at the end of Tin Pit (off St Martins). Currently leased for grazing, but there's a footpath open to all that leads down to the river. Stout footwear advisable - page coming soon
Wye House Garden is open until dusk all year round and is a hidden gem. The toddler's play area is currently being upgraded
Sites, charges and application form
Locations and hire charges
Cemetery charges & regulationsFind a burial
Click the image for hiring fees starting 1 April 2024.For areas not listed, please contact us directly.
Click here to see our full list of services
Click here for other ideas of places to visit in and around Marlborough and Manton
Can't find what you want, or interested in holding your event in one of our open spaces? We'll be happy to help
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