Grey plaque № 9371

This grey commemorative plaque records: Tower Gardens. Originally part of "The Long Walk" extending downstream to the confluence of the Rivers Ouse and Foss at Blue Bridge. A gateway was broken through the city wall and a handsome iron palisade gate was set in a stone arch (now removed) with an inscription stating that it was erected during the Mayoralty of Jonas Thompson (1731 to 1732). This gate was located where South Esplanade now enters the gardens. As the first public gardens in the city, the current arrangement was laid out in 1880-81, during the construction of Skeldergate Bridge, and the walk passed under the bridge through the short tunnel to St. George's field. Recorded plaque organisation: Millennium Commission.

Jonas Thompson served as Mayor from 1731 to 1732 and oversaw the construction of a significant gateway in Tower Gardens, marking an important development in York’s urban landscape. Tower Gardens, established as York's first public gardens in 1880-81, represent a pivotal moment in the city’s commitment to public green spaces and recreational areas.