Rose Bowl Fountains
The fountains are believed to be one of the earliest of their kind in the country.

Historic Hull fountains set for makeover

Hull’s historic Rose Bowl Fountains are set for a makeover that will see them returned to their former glory.

The fountains, built in 1935, are being restored as part of the £4.3m Queens Gardens refurbishment.

They were once said to be the largest illuminated fountains in the country.

They were designed as a corresponding feature to the then relocated Wilberforce Monument, sited at the east end of the gardens.

The fountains are believed to be one of the earliest of their kind in the country, using innovative lighting displays.

They were built with a system of 360 sprays that could be illuminated in numerous colour combinations.

The Queens Gardens masterplan will provide enticing open spaces, improved access and seating.

The Queens Gardens refurbishment will create attractive open spaces, improved access and seating.

Feasibility studies to assess the work will begin on Tuesday 28 January, which will see the fountains drained. This will provide the information required to plan the restoration work, including repair and replacement some of their mechanisms.

In 1935 the Gardeners’ Chronicle described the historic water feature as being the largest illuminated fountains in the country.

The plans for the gardens will incorporate the park’s original design of architect Frederick Gibberd, who retained the fountains as part of his original vision.

Roadworks will take place in Hull.
Photo by Tom Arran