James Williamson, known as the “Lino King” for his success in the linoleum industry, played a significant role in the development of Lancaster. He transformed a disused quarry into Williamson Park, which he later gifted to the city in 1881. The park, covering 54 acres, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Morecambe Bay and the Lake District fells.

The Ashton Memorial has undergone several restorations due to structural issues, including a major refurbishment between 1985 and 1987. Today, it serves as a venue for art exhibitions, concerts, and weddings, and remains a prominent landmark in Lancaster