Cricket Field is a historic open green on Hillside Avenue, originally a cricket pitch given to the town by mill owners in the 1930s, now used for youth soccer, lacrosse, a summer day program and winter sledding.
What to expect
Dogs
Needham requires dogs to be leashed on all public property at all times, with Animal Control issuing citations for unleashed dogs.
Managed by
Needham Park & Recreation Department
781-455-7930 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Field Grass
Two grass multi-purpose fields, referred to as Cricket 1 and Cricket 2.
Worth knowing
- A capital project to add a playground at Cricket Field was scheduled for FY25 in the town's capital plan, so a playground may be new or under construction.
Common questions
Why is it called Cricket Field if no one plays cricket there?
Mill owners William Carter and Frank Gorse maintained the site as a cricket pitch for workers into the 1930s before donating it to the town for general recreation; a 2011 tercentennial exhibition match briefly revived the sport there.
Is there an entry fee at Cricket Field?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Cricket Field?
Needham requires dogs to be leashed on all public property at all times, with Animal Control issuing citations for unleashed dogs.
What rules should I know at Cricket Field?
Needham Historical Commission has voted no alterations to the field, protecting it as a historic property.