Historic Waterton wall marks 200 years with month-long Wakefield festival
There are not many 9ft walls that would merit a festival, let along a month-long celebration.
But the three-mile long structure created 200 years ago by Charles Waterton isn’t just any old wall.
It surrounded the world’s first wildfowl and nature reserve at Walton Hall, which is now the Waterton Park Hotel.
To mark the bicentenary of Victorian eco-warrior Charles Waterton’s creation, the Friends of Waterton’s Wall are launching WallFest 26.
Charles Waterton (1782 to 1865) was a naturalist, plantation overseer and explorer best known for his pioneering work regarding conservation.
Taking place throughout May, the month‑long celebration will explore four themes – nature, creativity, heritage and wellbeing – with a wonderfully eclectic programme of talks, walks, workshops and community events. Local groups, charities, artists and businesses are all getting involved, and WallFest is shaping up to be a community‑powered tribute to one of Wakefield’s most fascinating environmental pioneers.
The wall was built in three stages and completed in 1826. In May 2026 a celebration of its 200th birthday is planned. More than 50 events have been organised around four strands: nature, creativity, heritage and wellbeing.
Chairman John Smith said since becoming a registered charity in June 2023, The Friends of Waterton’s Wall have achieved significant milestones in preserving Charles Waterton’s legacy. They have gained listed status for the historic wall and Historic England designation for the enclosed parkland as the world’s first nature reserve.
They have restored a key section of the wall using traditional heritage lime mortar. Of WallFest, he said: “There are activities, talks, visits and walks culminating in a Party in the Park on Sunday May 31.
“Trustees are most grateful for the support received from so many sectors of the Walton community and the wider Wakefield district. Get involved and have a great time.”
Charles Waterton. a descendant living in Australia, said: “What do you think ‘The Old Gentleman’ Squire Charles Waterton, would have made of WallFest? He would have been absolutely thrilled to see all these people coming to see the fruit of his labours being celebrated for the landmark it forms in the history of the preservation of that most beautiful treasure, the English countryside.”
Councillor Hannah Appleyard, Wakefield Council’s cabinet member for culture, heritage and sport, said: “Waterton Park is a hugely important place within the Wakefield district. It is widely considered to be the first nature reserve ever created, and therefore of international significance. Wakefield Council is delighted to support the Friends of Waterton’s Wall in celebrating its 200-year anniversary.”
For details, visit: https://experiencewakefield.co.uk/event/wallfest/.