Sandhill Park in Rawmarsh is a local urban park and nature area, and historically the general area was part of the Sandhills region, which included Sandhill Farm. It has a history tied to the local community and the area's industrial past. 

Key Historical Aspects

• "The Sandhills" Area: The name "Sandhills" referred to the local area, likely due to the Permian system of red sandstones and marls in the ground, which also contributed to a local pottery industry.

• Sandhill Farm: In the 19th century, there was a specific "Sandhill Farm" located near Kilnhurst, which was a 100-acre farm inhabited by families such as the Tyzacks.

• Industrial Heritage: The broader Rawmarsh area has a rich industrial history, particularly in coal mining and steel production, with the Parkgate Iron and Steel Company being a major local employer.

• Twentieth Century Development:

  • In the late 1950s, motor buses were introduced to Kilnhurst via the National Coal Board (NCB) estate at Sandhill, indicating housing development in the area around that time.

  • The current park and nature trail area have been a community green space for many years, with local groups such as the "Friends of Sandhill Park" involved in its maintenance and preservation.

• Community Use: The park is primarily a residential area park and nature reserve used by local residents for recreation, walking, and sports. In 2023, the park was part of a local history group's project celebrating 200 years of Parkgate's history with a Victorian-style parade. 

The area of Parkgate in Rotherham has been served by several railway stations over the years: two historical main line stations and the current tram-train stop.

Historical Railway Stations

Two traditional railway stations served the Parkgate area:

Parkgate and Rawmarsh railway station:

Opened: 1840 by the North Midland Railway (originally named Rawmarsh).

Location: Situated in Parkgate, adjacent to the Park Gate Iron and Steel Company's works.

Closure: Closed to passengers on January 1, 1968, along with other stations on that line (except Rotherham Masborough at the time).

Parkgate and Aldwarke railway station:

Opened: July 1873 by the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway (originally known as "Aldwarke").

Location: Located nearby, it primarily served the local Aldwarke Main and Roundwood collieries, with many shift workers using the service.

Closure: Closed to passengers on October 29, 1951.