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Sparrow's Nest Gardens

The Sparrow's Nest gardens are in the North Denes area of Lowestoft, near the seafront. They were once part of a private estate, owned by Robert Sparrow. The council bought the gardens in the 1890's and the tea rooms now occupy the site where the big house once stood.

In the early part of the last century the gardens became very popular for alfresco events and concerts. In 1913 the Borough of Lowestoft commissioned the Pavilion Theatre, which seated 1,300.

On 3rd September 1939 the Royal Navy commandeered the theatre and the grounds to set up the HQ for the Royal Navy Patrol Service, known as HMS Europa. The Royal Naval Patrol Service Association museum is now in the grounds. There is a memorial to sailors lost at sea and it bears the names of 2,385 sailors.

The pavilion was demolished in 1988 and only the booking office remains - now a camcorder and cine club.

The gardens are landscaped with a kiddies play area, two bowling greens, a cafe, a pub, museums and public toilets.