Community Leisure and Cultural Services
Harlow provides a host of leisure opportunities for residents,
visitors and workers in the town.
Older members of the community can take advantage of the Leah
Manning Centre - The Centre was opened in 1980 it provides
specialist daycare under contract with Essex County Council for
service users with a high level of need. Part of the Centre
now houses the William Day Unit: run by West Essex Primary Care,
this unit offers physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and
language therapy and treatment.
Young People's services include A Play Strategy for Harlow,
Children’s play and recreation are of vital importance in Harlow.
We want play to be inspiring and enjoyable, promoting achievement
and a healthy lifestyle, whilst being safe and inclusive. Along
with the popular Youth Cafe which provides activities, support and
a place to chill out for the younger members of our
community, and the positive HYC Harlow Youth
Council.
Children and families love Pets Corner and in the summer the
many paddling pools around the town provide hours of entertainment.
Harlow is host to 164 acre Town Park with its scenic
landscapes, river walks, sculptures, adventure playground and
skatepark. The Showground hosts the annual bonfire and
firework display attracting thousands of Harlow residents as well
as people from further afield, and also other music events take
place in the park during the summer months.
There are also many exciting sports and physical activity
opportunities such as an extensive range of cycle networks, sport
centres, athletics track, sports pitches and a baseball
diamond.
Also worth visiting are Parndon Wood Nature Reserve,
Harlow Museum, The Gibberd Gallery and Harlow Playhouse.