Faversham Recreation Ground

Faversham Recreation Ground, known affectionally as the was created in 1860 by the Trustees of Public Charities of Faversham with the enthusiastic support and encouragement of the local community. Much of its original layout remains, including wide, tree lined avenues, extensive grassland, mixed broad and coniferous woodland, and an attractive lodge originally built to provide accommodation for the gardener. This 20-acre green space is well used for recreation, is an important venue for sport, and over the years has also hosted a wide range of events and activities., A proposal for a recreation ground for Faversham can be traced back to discussions about a generous bequest provided by Henry Weight, who died in 1840. This was administered by the Trustees of Public Charities of Faversham and although proposals were initially unsuccessful, subsequent plans were approved and the 20-acre site acquired by the Trustees of Public Charities in 1859. Following construction and landscaping, Faversham Recreation Ground was officially opened on Wednesday 22 August 1860., The Trustees of Public Charities managed the Rec with a budget of £82 10 shillings per annum until 1898 at which point the Town Council agreed to take over. Although still owned by Faversham Municipal Charities to this day, with the changes to local government Swale Borough Council took over maintenance responsibility in the mid 1970's., Although much loved, with the Rec showing signs of "tiredness" a new lease was signed with the Trustees in 2010 and the Council successfully applied for a £1.6m grant from Heritage Lottery Fund and The Big Lottery Fund, Parks for People programme in 2018. This enabled extensive refurbishment works to both the pavilion and Grade II listed Lodge including a new refreshment outlet, improved setting of the Grade II listed boundary stone, new play areas and outdoor gym, resurfaced paths, new performance space, boundary railing and new planting.