Cobtree Manor Park

About

Cobtree Manor Park has over 50 acres of parkland displaying a diverse and maturing collection of trees and shrubs. The Park features a themed play area, along with a sculpture trail, plenty of space for picnics, and a visitor centre and café serving hot and cold food and drinks

The Park is known locally as the site of the Maidstone Zoo. Sir Garrard’s once owner of the land, had a private collection of animals which was opened to the visiting public. In 1939 his opening programme listed 36 kinds of animals to see, growing from this to over 10 acres with wolves and foxes, a Pets Corner, elephant and pony rides and a miniature railway in 1949.

The zoo finally closed in 1959 as a result of rising costs and Sir Garrard’s deteriorating health. Having no children Sir Garrard and Lady Edna set up and endowed the Cobtree Charity Trust in 1951. In the late 1970’s Cobtree Manor Park was created by the Cobtree Charity Trust Ltd, working in partnership with the Cobtree Manor Estate Trust and Maidstone Borough Council.

Hilliers of Winchester was given the task of designing "parkland garden" and 600 species of trees and shrubs were planted. Most of them have survived to this day, forming a sizeable arboretum.

Today links to the park’s history remain, with the zoo themed play area and if you look closely as you wander, you’ll find a cattle shelter, sheep wash and the Elephant House.