Simmons Park in Okehampton wins prestigious Green Flag Award for excellence

Okehampton’s Simmons Park has been officially recognised as one of the best parks in the country after being awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award - an internationally recognised benchmark for high-quality parks and green spaces.

The accolade, announced today, celebrates the tireless efforts of Okehampton Town Council and the dedicated team who maintain the park. Simmons Park now joins over 2,250 sites across the UK that have achieved this respected status, which is administered by Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government.

The Green Flag Award is given only to parks and green spaces that meet stringent criteria for cleanliness, environmental management, community involvement, and overall quality of visitor experience.

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, praised the achievement, saying:

“Congratulations to everyone involved in Simmons Park who have worked tirelessly to ensure that it achieves the high standards required for the Green Flag Award.

“Quality parks and green spaces like Simmons Park make the country a healthier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest.

“Crucially, Simmons Park is a vital green space for communities in Okehampton to enjoy nature, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis it is a free... space for families to socialise. It also provides important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.”

Located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Simmons Park has long been a cherished public space in the heart of Okehampton. It was originally opened in 1907, gifted to the town by local benefactor Sydney Simmons, a successful businessman and philanthropist. The park is known for its mature trees, scenic River Okement, ornamental gardens, play areas, sports facilities, and tranquil woodland walks. Despite its recent troubles with antisocial behaviour, the reopening of the police station in the town has had some positive impact on the troubles which has resulted in the park remaining a peaceful, beautiful place to spend time. 

Over the years, it has undergone numerous enhancements, including the addition of a skate park, tennis courts, and restoration of the historic bandstand and stone bridges, all aimed at ensuring it remains a welcoming and accessible space for all ages.

The award serves as recognition not only of the park’s current condition but also of its enduring legacy as a community cornerstone. The Green Flag flying over Simmons Park now stands as a visible symbol of excellence, sustainability, and civic pride.

The success of Simmons Park shows the importance of local investment in public green spaces, especially as communities seek affordable, accessible ways to improve wellbeing and enjoy nature.