Visitors and volunteers flocking to Haigh as exciting new era takes shape

New figures reveal Wigan’s iconic Haigh Woodland Park is more popular than ever as it shapes its exciting future.

Recent attractions such as Amphitheatre for a Tree and Snail on Me have contributed to record-breaking visitor numbers at the popular destination.

For example, more than 105,000 paid a visit in August, part of a busy summer season in 2025.

Meanwhile, more and more people have been getting involved as volunteers – with a staggering 7,656 volunteer hours being clocked over the past 12 months.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “We’ve always said Haigh Woodland Park belongs to the people, and it’s clear this incredible place means as much to them as it ever has.

“There’s so much amazing stuff going on here right now, from the stunning transformation of Haigh Hall and the restoration of the Plantation Gates and Bothy Yard, to the installations and events that are giving people even more reason to visit.

“We couldn’t make it all happen without our fabulous volunteers, who share our passion for Haigh and put so much time and energy into helping make it what it is. I’d like to sincerely thank them all for everything they do.

“Haigh holds cherished memories for so many people and has a special place in local people’s hearts, and what we’re seeing is that sense of love and pride is only going to grow and grow!”

While Haigh Hall itself is restored and transformed into an arts and culture destination thanks to Levelling Up and council funding, investment in the wider park has already been reaping rewards over the past year with an increase in visitors.

Amphitheatre for a Tree was opened in May, built partly by using rubble from the old model village to create a sustainable garden inspired by the formal gardens from the historic site’s proud past.

A stunning handkerchief tree sits at its centre, donated by Wigan Rotary Club as part of their centenary year celebrations, with funding from Arts Council England contributing to its development.

A new public artwork, Snail on Me – created for Haigh by international artist Anne Duk Hee Jordan – was also opened in the lower walled gardens in September, partly funded by Arts Fund.

The recent restoration of the Grade II* listed Plantation Gates and Lodges, which are set to open this summer, will see a dramatic art installation in the North Lodge with an information point and public toilets in the South Lodge. Works have been enabled through funding provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Combined with regular events and activities each and every week, the investment has led to more people choosing Haigh for a day out.

Naturally, the summer months proved the most popular – with a record 106,927 people spending time at the park in August alone – and that high benchmark is likely to be surpassed again in 2026 thanks to an exciting new events programme.

Meanwhile, enthusiastic volunteers visit the site each week to support with horticulture, events and other activities.

The oldest is 80-year-old John Smith from Aspull, who works with the site support team.

John said: ‘I like volunteering at Haigh, it gets me out and keeps me active, I’d be sat and home watching TV if I wasn’t here! I’ve met lots of new people, some really similar to me.’

Anyone interested in volunteering at Haigh can find out more on the Haigh website (external link).

To keep up to date with what’s on at the park, be sure to follow Haigh Woodland Park on Facebook.