The Bandstand

The bandstand was part of a second phase in the development of the River Gardens. Initially, just a platform was provided for visiting bands, but as events became more ambitious, attracting greater and greater numbers of visitors, a more formal structure was needed. Gas lighting was provided so music could be played until darkness fell and the firework displays began.

Women in Love

In October 1968, Ken Russell filmed part of his controversial film adaptation of D H Lawrence’s Women in Love at the River Gardens and by the sluice gates of the Horseshoe Weir. One of the stars was Alan Bates, a former pupil of Herbert Strutt Grammar School in Belper.

He was filmed opening the sluices by the weir and once the pool by the promenade had emptied, a scene was recorded on the riverbank.

Pulhamite

In 1906, it was decided a fountain and rockwork pool would be an attractive addition to the promenade area, and Pulham and Sons of Broxbourne were appointed to create it. This company also carried out extensive landscaping, adding artificial rockwork, despite the ready availability of local stone. The artificial stonework was known as ‘Pulhamite’ and frequently mistaken for the real thing. The Pulhamite fountain can be seen being tested shortly after installation.