The area of open space was reserved in 1845, the park was proclaimed in 1873 and in 1882, was officially named in honour of Captain James Cook.
Cook Park embodies the changing colours of Orange. Summer's arrival brings gardens of stunning and vibrant, coloured roses. From February to April, hundreds of begonias bloom in the Blowes Conservatory and in Spring, a burst of colour arrives with masses of tulips and daffodils.
This National Trust area is also home to duck ponds, swings (for kids), an aviary featuring predominantly native birdlife (for bird watchers), the Lattice Fernery (for everyone!) and for the craft lover, there is the Cook Park Guildry.
However you spend your time in Cook Park, be sure to leave time to do the self-guided heritage walk. Brochures of the walk are available in the Guildry or from the Orange Visitor Information Centre.