Alexandra Park

Park

Explorer Tom

Alexandra Park climbs a hill above central Ipswich as though it wants first sight of everything happening down by the Waterfront. Enter from Grove Lane and you get lawns, trees, play space and a fountain with a story, all within easy reach of town; frankly, the hill has earned its view. Before it was a public park, this ground belonged to Hill House and the Byles family, Ipswich corn merchants. The borough bought the estate after its last owners died in 1902 and named the new park for Queen Alexandra, wife of Edward VII. By the Grove Lane entrance stands the Byles Fountain, a granite memorial given in 1905 by mayor Charles Cowell in memory of Marianne Byles. That is more family history than most drinking fountains can claim. The council's walking guide suggests short circuits through the park and points out its pond, newer trees and wildlife areas. It also calls this a place for picnics and play, with equipment for children and enough paths to turn a quick leg stretch into a deliberate wander. Keep dogs under control near the pond; the birds have enough to do without conducting a surprise chase scene. I cannot promise the fountain still dispenses a mayoral speech. Alexandra is one of Ipswich's smaller gated parks, and the council publishes opening and seasonal closing times. It normally opens at 7:30 in the morning from Monday to Saturday and 9 on Sunday, but check the current closing time before you linger; dangerous icy paths can cause a closure. Come for an easy town walk, pause at the old fountain, then let the slope give you the excuse to take the long way downhill.