Park Activities
Chances Park has plenty to offer whatever your age or interests. Whether you enjoy a gentle walk, getting close to nature or something a little more active, the park has something for you. Come and explore the grounds, discover the wildlife and make the most of this wonderful community green space.
The nature trail is a waymarked route around the park suitable for all ages. Pick up an activity sheet from Morton Community Centre before you set off and follow the trail at your own pace. Activity sheets are available for younger children aged 3 to 8 and older children aged 8 to 14, covering topics from minibeasts and birds to trees, wildflowers and the park’s fascinating history.
Chances Park is home to a wonderful collection of mature native and exotic trees, many of which have stood here for well over a century. The tree trail takes you on a journey through the park’s arboricultural history, from ancient oaks that predate the manor itself to more unusual varieties planted as part of the 2009 restoration. A great way to explore the park and learn something new along the way.
The labyrinth at Chances Park has been a long awaited addition to the park, developed in response to strong demand from the local community. A labyrinth is a walking path used for quiet reflection and mindfulness, and people of all ages find it a calming and rewarding experience. Come and walk the path at your own pace and take a moment for yourself in this special corner of the park.
The Georgian garden at Chances Park is a restored interpretation of the formal gardens that would have originally surrounded Morton Manor. Designed in keeping with the Georgian style of the manor itself, the garden features themed planting displays, carefully tended beds and a wonderful variety of seasonal colour throughout the year. It is a lovely spot to slow down, take a stroll and enjoy the surroundings.
Our free activity sheets are a great way to explore Chances Park and learn more along the way. Whether you are following the nature trail with the family, teaching little ones about wildlife or discovering the park’s fascinating history, there is a sheet to suit every visitor. Simply choose one below, print it off and bring it along on your next visit.
Chances Park is home to a number of regular groups and activities that meet throughout the week. Whether you are looking to get a little more active, meet new people or simply get out of the house, there is likely a group here that suits you. All are welcoming to new members and most are completely free to attend.
Walk and Talk is a friendly monthly group run in partnership with the local hospice, offering a chance to get outside, enjoy the park and have a good conversation along the way. The walks are gentle and sociable, taking in the paths and green spaces of Chances Park at a relaxed pace. No experience or fitness level is required, just bring yourself along and see how you get on.
Chances Park is a popular spot for dog owners and the park hosts regular dog training sessions within the grounds. Training sessions are a great way to work with your dog in a familiar outdoor environment, helping to build good habits and improve recall and behaviour in a green space setting. Check our events page or get in touch for details of current sessions and how to book a place.
Carlisle parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at 9am in Chances Park. It is a free, timed 5 kilometre event open to people of all abilities, whether you want to run, jog or walk the course. The route takes in a mix of tarmac paths, gravel paths and grass through the park grounds. Registration is free and you only ever need to sign up once at parkrun.org.uk.
Travel Actively Carlisle runs Weekly Wellbeing Walks every Tuesday at 10:30am, meeting in the cafe at Cornerstone, along with Summer Strolls and other guided walks throughout the month. A friendly way to turn your everyday journey into a physical activity for a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Our Healthy Living Walks take place every Monday morning, except bank holidays, and are a lovely way to get some fresh air and gentle exercise while taking in the park’s beautiful surroundings. There is no need to book, just turn up on the day and join in. Afterwards, the walk continues into the Manor cafe, where you can enjoy a cuppa and a chat with fellow walkers.
Tai Chi has met in Chances Park every Monday morning since 2010, rain or shine. It began when the Friends of Chances Park set up activities to encourage use of the park, and the group has kept going ever since. Prospective new members can leave their name and a contact number with the ladies in the office and they will pass it on.
