Highlight • Monument
Mountain biking
4.7
(15)
The Fountain in Thornes Park refers primarily to the historic Major Barker Memorial Fountain, a Grade II listed ornamental drinking fountain located within Clarence Park, which is an integral part of the expansive Thornes Park in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England. Standing at an elevation of approximately 80 metres, this monument is a significant landmark within the park's 60 hectares of green space, offering a glimpse into the region's rich industrial and social history.
Visitors are often drawn to the fountain's…
Tips
October 4, 2021
Mountain biking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Fountain in Thornes Park
3
riders
45.6km
03:06
570m
570m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
30.5km
01:56
300m
300m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
2
riders
38.4km
02:27
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 14 March
8°C
2°C
3 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
The Major Barker Memorial Fountain, erected in 1893, commemorates Major Joseph Barker J.P., a local magistrate and owner of Thornes Mill who died in 1892. It was funded by his workers as a tribute, highlighting Wakefield's industrial heritage and the philanthropic spirit of the era. As a Grade II listed structure, it offers a tangible link to the city's past.
Yes, very close by in Clarence Park, you can find another Grade II listed structure: a raised red granite cattle trough and drinking fountain. This monument, erected in 1888, commemorates Anne Clarkson, an animal welfare advocate, and features a verse from Coleridge's "The Ancient Mariner."
The paths immediately surrounding the fountain and within Clarence Park are generally paved and feature gentle slopes, making them suitable for easy walks. As you explore the wider Thornes Park, you'll find a mix of paved paths and open green spaces, offering varied terrain for different activities.
While the immediate area around the fountain is more suited for leisurely strolls, the broader Thornes Park offers 60 hectares of open spaces and a two-mile circular walkway. This provides ample opportunity for trail runners to enjoy longer routes with varied surfaces, though significant elevation gain is not a primary feature.
The paths around the Major Barker Memorial Fountain within Clarence Park are generally paved and have gentle gradients, making them accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The wider Thornes Park also features many accessible routes, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
While the fountain itself is a focal point, the park offers several scenic spots. A mound in the centre of Thornes Park, once part of an old motte-and-bailey castle, provides excellent views across the city and the parkland. Many routes within the park also highlight various viewpoints.
The park's diverse landscape, including its lake and mature trees, supports various wildlife. Visitors often spot common bird species, squirrels, and other small mammals. The tranquil setting provides a good opportunity for nature observation.
While there isn't a cafe directly adjacent to the fountain, Thornes Park itself has facilities, including an indoor leisure centre, which may offer refreshments. Additionally, due to the park's proximity to Wakefield city centre, numerous cafes and pubs are available within a short distance.
Thornes Park is well-connected to Wakefield city centre, which is about 1.3 km away. Local bus services frequently run to areas surrounding the park, making it easily accessible via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes to Clarence Park or Thornes Park entrances.
Absolutely! The fountain is located within Clarence Park, which is part of the larger Thornes Park. This expansive green space offers formal gardens, a lake, a miniature railway, and plenty of open areas for children to play. The easy walking paths make it suitable for families with young children, and there's much to explore beyond just the fountain.
Yes, Thornes Park, including the area around the fountain, is very dog-friendly. There are numerous dog-friendly routes and open spaces for your pet to enjoy. Please ensure dogs are kept under control and any waste is properly disposed of to maintain the park's cleanliness for all visitors.