Looking for a quiet, local park where little ones can play and bigger kids can scoot? Lorraine Taylor Reserve in St Ives has just had a refresh, with new play equipment, open grassy space and plenty of room to roam. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for picnics, scooter laps and outdoor fun.
Tucked away in a quiet pocket of St Ives, Lorraine Taylor Reserve (previously known as Athena Avenue Reserve) has had a lovely little upgrade – and it’s the perfect spot for younger kids to play, scoot, and explore. While it’s definitely aimed at toddlers and preschoolers, my three (Cassie, 9, Vivi, 7, and Elliot, 6) still had plenty of fun zooming around the paved path, kicking the ball on the grass, and building teepees out of sticks.
It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by greenery, ideal for a relaxed morning out—just bring snacks, scooters, and a hat!
The reserve has been renamed in honour of Lorraine Taylor, a long-time St Ives volunteer and community figure who passed away in 2015.
Getting to Lorraine Taylor Reserve
The park is nestled in the backstreets of St Ives and can be a little hidden if you’re not local. Look out for Athena Avenue – the reserve sits right at the end of this quiet residential street.
There’s street parking available right out front, and it’s usually easy to get a spot.
Playground at Lorraine Taylor Reserve
The new playground setup is small and simple, but it is just perfect for imaginative play and younger children. You’ll find:
A mini climbing frame and slide
This climbing frame is perfect for toddlers and bigger kids. They can climb (with a helping hand) or stick to the double slide at the end.
Swings
You’ll find both an adult swing and a toddler swing, perfect for all ages to enjoy.
Roundabout
A fun roundabout, which is accessible for inclusive play. Plus, there are a few other spin and bounce play spaces throughout as well.
Beyond the Playground
Kids had great fun building a teepee
What really makes this reserve shine is the open green space. There’s loads of room to kick a ball, run wild, or enjoy a picnic under the trees. My kids loved building little stick huts and spent most of their time finding sticks, leaves and other objects to add.
Scooter path
Another highlight was riding their scooters along the wide pathway that loops around the edge of the reserve.
Facilities
At Lorraine Taylor Reserve, you’ll find a bench seat and a drinking fountain, but if you plan to stay a while, I recommend bringing a picnic rug and some supplies.
- Seating: There are a couple of benches around the edge of the playground
- Water: A drinking fountain is available
- Scooter/bike path: A smooth, circular path surrounds the reserve, perfect for scooters or small bikes
- Grass: Lots of grassy space for picnics, sports and free play
Things to note…
- No fencing: The playground isn’t enclosed, so you’ll need to keep an eye on any little explorers
- No toilets: There are no bathroom facilities on site
- Limited shade: Some trees are offering natural shade, but no shade cloths over the play area – come prepared with sunscreen and hats!
Essential Details: Lorraine Taylor Reserve
- Address: End of Athena Avenue, St Ives
- Parking: Free street parking is available
- Toilets: No
- Sunshade: Limited natural shade, no shade cloth
- Enclosed: Not fenced
- Seats: Benches available
- Water: Drinking fountain
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