Across the River Mersey from Liverpool is the unassuming town of Birkenhead. What has this got to do with Central Park? You may be thinking, well, quite a lot actually.
When Connecticut farmer, Frederick Law Olmsted, had his plan for Central Park accepted it was the world's first publicly funded park in Birkenhead that was his inspiration. I only mention it because most people are unaware of it.
Begun in 1858, Central Park was an immediate success. Taking 15 years to complete at a cost of $14 million it incorporated 36 bridges or arches, 11 overpasses, a lake and over half a million trees and shrubs.
Today the park is the green heart of Manhattan and offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The park caters for runners, sports fans, children, cyclists, dog walkers etc and in the winter time there's even a public ice rink available.
As parks go, it's very impressive and worth a visit if you are in New York.