Simmons Park

Situated at the south of Okehampton town centre is Simmons Park, which runs alongside the East Okement River. There are some interesting historical memorials, including a stone plaque to honour Sydney Simmons, the creator of the park which opened to the public in 1907.

In 1921 the town council acquired Kemply Meadows next to Simmons Park, a large open field which now contains a playpark, picnic benches, a bandstand and the Parklands Leisure Centre. It’s also home to Okehampton Argyle Football Club. By 2002, the park had been refurbished to restore the beautiful woodland, with the addition of a rose garden to celebrate the Queens Golden Jubilee.

Walking through the park you will spot quaint wooden bridges, idyllic gardens and waterfalls, huge towering trees, and an abundance of gorgeous wild flowers. Due to its many gardens, trees and natural habitats, the park is rich in wildlife and can be spotted or heard from all over the park. The area is popular with local dog walkers, so you’ll be sure to spot a happy pooch or two running around the park.

Simmons Park is no stranger to hosting event; previous events include concerts, dog shows, charity fates and open air cinemas. The area is also a popular spot with geocachers if that’s your thing.

The park is very easily accessible, being less than a 10-minute walk away from the town centre, and if you’re travelling by car there is a fairly priced carpark on site. Simmons Park is also only a 15-minute walk from Okehampton Railway Station, which can be reached from Exeter St David’s Railway Station on the Dartmoor Line. The area is very level and flat, so it’s an ideal spot for the elderly or those may have difficulty walking.