Library Gardens

The Library Gardens is an impeccably formed, popular pocket park and memorial garden which is sandwiched fortuitously between the grand Carnegie Library building and attractive St. Mary's Anglican Church. Together they are located in the heart of Rawtenstall which was named in the Sunday Times best places to live in 2023. The gardens are easily accessible by car or public transport and is a short walk from either the East Lancashire Heritage Railway station, the bus terminus, and charming Town Centre shopping area on Bank Street. The whole area is steeped in rich industrial history and set amongst beautiful South-East Pennine moorland.

The Library Gardens contain a number of striking features from the grade 2* listed Shap granite cenotaph, manicured lawns to the numerous quality benches and pretty tree lined access along Church Pad. The gardens are a mixture or formal beds and informal shrubbery, all of which are expertly managed to create year round colour, interest and ecological benefits. In all, the space provides the perfect opportunity for all members of the public to take a short stroll, sit, meet friends and admire the charming character of the gardens and the wider Rawtenstall area.

For many years the gardens have hosted Remembrance Day commemorations, informal music-filled tea parties, acted as a pleasant overspill space from Church occasions and also a gallery to view passing processions and carnivals. Today the space receives special attention from members of Rossendale Civic Pride who expertly supplement the works of the Council's Green Spaces Team and provide a host of volunteering opportunities in the Town.