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Herrington Country Park

4.7
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant country park on a former colliery site, offering scenic walks, public art, wildlife, and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Cafes are open, lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Park from Penshaw Monument

Herrington Country Park

Best Time

Weekends

Cafes are open, lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant country park on a former colliery site, offering scenic walks, public art, wildlife, and family fun.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"An amazing park with beautiful walks, ideal for all ages and wheelchairs."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Perfect for Dog Walks

Fantastic for taking your dog! Geese and swans roam freely and are very tame. :dog:

☕ Coffee & Cake Stops

New coffee trailers and cafes like Love Lily offer great coffee and treats. Check opening days! :coffee:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sunderland Story Sculpture

The Sunderland Story Sculpture

Central park area

A striking monument commemorating Sunderland's industrial past and football heritage. A must-see for local pride.

Amphitheatre

Amphitheatre

Grassed seating area

A unique, grass-covered amphitheatre offering a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the park's atmosphere.

Wildlife Lakes

Wildlife Lakes

Various lakes throughout the park

Home to numerous ducks, geese, and swans. Keep an eye out for the 'posh ducks' and other fascinating birdlife.

Public Art Installations

Public Art Installations

Scattered throughout the park

Discover various sculptures and art pieces that add a unique artistic flair to the natural landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Herrington Country Park offers vast open spaces perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature. Pack comfortable shoes and be ready for a day of exploration. It's a former colliery site, now transformed into a vibrant green space with sculptures and wildlife.

Fuel Your Adventure

Several cafes and coffee trailers are available within the park, perfect for a warm drink or a bite to eat. Check their opening times, especially outside peak season, as they can vary.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Cafes are open, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful walks, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Spring/Summer afternoons
Why
Best weather for outdoor activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Sunderland Story. For Bradley 🫶 #sunderland #safc #viral #fyp #PremierLeague
@gregheffleyproductions
14.9K likes • 190.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Perfect for Dog Walks

Fantastic for taking your dog! Geese and swans roam freely and are very tame. :dog:

☕ Coffee & Cake Stops

New coffee trailers and cafes like Love Lily offer great coffee and treats. Check opening days! :coffee:

#ckdageneral #relatble #uk #sunderland
@ckdageneral
12.1K likes • 145.2K views
Location: Herrington country park Post code: DH4 7EL Distance: 4.5 miles Time: 1.5 hours Love this walk! Love this weather!💛💛
lottiesadventures_
11 likes • 390 views

♿ Accessible Paths

Ideal for all ages, including those using wheelchairs and rollators. Smooth, well-maintained paths. :wheelchair:

🦢 Beware of Swans!

The swans can be quite bold and hungry for snacks! Keep a safe distance. :swan:

My caffeine addiction takes me to the best places😍 The new (ish) coffee trailer in Herrington Country Park is well worth a visit! I was so pleased to see it this weekend as I was in desperate need for a coffee and something to keep me warm while we walked around the park☕ They're open Friday to Sunday right now - but will hopefully extend their hours come the summer. Let me know if you've be...
mackemlife_
101 likes • 4.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Perfect for Dog Walks

Fantastic for taking your dog! Geese and swans roam freely and are very tame. :dog:

☕ Coffee & Cake Stops

New coffee trailers and cafes like Love Lily offer great coffee and treats. Check opening days! :coffee:

♿ Accessible Paths

Ideal for all ages, including those using wheelchairs and rollators. Smooth, well-maintained paths. :wheelchair:

🦢 Beware of Swans!

The swans can be quite bold and hungry for snacks! Keep a safe distance. :swan:

🚴‍♀️ Cycling & Walking

Great for cycling and walking with miles of trails. Enjoy the fresh air and scenery. :bike:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Herrington Country Park is widely praised as a beautiful and versatile destination, ideal for walks, family outings, and dog owners. Visitors appreciate its blend of nature, public art, and historical significance, with many highlighting the accessibility and the pleasant atmosphere. While generally positive, some mention the boldness of the swans and the variability of cafe opening times.

"An amazing park with beautiful walks.
Ideal for all ages and wheelchairs and rollators.
We will definitely be back soon to enjoy some of the other walks around the park."

Ian Jakeman

"Herrington Country Park is a compelling blend of nature, public art, family-friendly recreation, and heritage—set against an impressive backdrop of Penshaw Monument.
It’s a great spot for walking, wildlife watching, playing, or relaxing—though some caution is advised during busy events or if dogs are present.
Herrington Country Park is well-loved for good reason—thanks to its blend of history, beauty, art, and community vibrancy. Just be prepared, and it’s a day out that's hard to forget."

Inta

"Beautiful place to visit. Fantastic for taking your dog round. Geese and swans roaming around freely, and very tame. Loads to see"

Fiona Clark

What People Like

Beautiful walks and scenery
Family-friendly atmosphere
Dog-friendly environment

What People Dislike

Bold swans
Variable cafe hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Herrington Country Park is located just outside Sunderland. It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop nearby. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at Herrington Country Park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. :car:

Absolutely! The park is very cycle-friendly with dedicated paths. It's a popular spot for cycling enthusiasts looking for a scenic route. :bike:

The nearest major train station is Sunderland Station. From there, you would need to take a bus or taxi to reach Herrington Country Park.

Yes, the park is well-signposted and easily accessible from major roads in the Sunderland area. The postcode DH4 7EL is helpful for GPS navigation. :round_pushpin:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Herrington Country Park is free for all visitors. You can enjoy the park's amenities and natural beauty without any admission charge. :ticket:

Herrington Country Park is generally open from dawn till dusk. However, specific facilities like cafes may have their own operating hours, typically Friday to Sunday. :clock1:

For general park access, no booking is required. However, if there are specific events or performances held at the amphitheatre, you may need to purchase tickets for those. Check local listings for event details.

Herrington Country Park is very dog-friendly and a popular spot for dog walkers. Dogs are welcome, but it's always good practice to keep them under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. :dog:

Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the park authorities or local council for any regulations regarding drone operation to ensure you comply with local laws.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, cycling, wildlife watching, picnicking, and exploring the various sculptures and the amphitheatre. There's also a playground for children. :hikingboot::camerawith_flash:

Yes, it's very family-friendly with a playground, open spaces for running around, and interesting sights like the sculptures and wildlife. :familywwomengirl:

The park offers beautiful walks around its lakes and through its open spaces. The paths are generally well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels. :walking:

You'll see a variety of birdlife, including ducks, geese, and swans on the lakes. Keep an eye out for other local wildlife as you explore the park. :duck::swan:

Yes, the park is well-regarded for its accessibility, with many paths being suitable for wheelchairs and prams. :wheelchair:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several options including the Love Lily cafe and various coffee trailers that pop up, especially on weekends. They offer coffees, cakes, and light meals. :coffee::cake:

You can find American-style pancakes, brunches, coffees, cakes, and doughnuts. It's a great spot for a casual bite or a treat during your visit. :pancakes:

Absolutely! The park has plenty of open grassy areas perfect for picnics. Remember to take any rubbish with you. :picnic_table:

Cafes typically offer a range of options, including vegetarian and often vegan choices. It's best to check the specific menu at the time of your visit. :leafy_green:

The cafes and coffee trailers are most reliably open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Hours can vary, so it's a good idea to check their social media or websites for the latest information. :calendar:

📸 📸 Photography

The Sunderland Story sculpture, the amphitheatre, the wildlife on the lakes, and the general scenic landscapes offer great photo opportunities. The nearby Penshaw Monument also provides a stunning backdrop. :camera:

Yes, with its lakes and diverse birdlife, it's a fantastic spot for nature photography, especially for birdwatchers. :bird:

Yes, the public art installations are a key feature of the park and are perfect for photography. :art:

Generally, photography for personal use is welcomed. For commercial photography or filming, you may need to seek permission from the park authorities. :memo:

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating beautiful golden hour shots. :sunrise::sunset:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Herrington Country Park is a fantastic choice for families. The playground is a major draw for children, and the expansive open green spaces are perfect for them to run around and play freely. Reddit The park's accessibility means strollers and wheelchairs are easily accommodated, making it stress-free for parents with young children or those with mobility needs. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to spot the wildlife on the lakes – the tame geese and swans are always a hit with kids. Reddit Plus, the cafes like Love Lily offer kid-friendly treats and a place to warm up. Instagram It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed family day out with plenty to see and do.

🐶 Dog Owners

Herrington Country Park is a paradise for dog owners! It's a highly recommended spot for dog walks, with plenty of space for your furry friends to explore. Reddit The tame geese and swans on the lakes provide interesting sights (and sometimes amusing chases!) for dogs, though it's always wise to keep them under control around wildlife. InstagramReddit

The park's accessible paths are great for dogs of all sizes and energy levels, and the open fields are perfect for a game of fetch. The presence of coffee trailers means you can grab a well-deserved treat for yourself after your walk. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Cyclists

For those who love to walk or cycle, Herrington Country Park offers miles of scenic trails. Instagram The well-maintained paths wind around lakes and through open countryside, providing a refreshing escape. Reddit Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer cycling route, the park caters to various fitness levels. Instagram

It's a popular spot for trail running clubs too, highlighting the quality of the routes. Instagram The diverse landscape, from open fields to lakeside paths, ensures an engaging experience for all outdoor enthusiasts. Remember to check out the public art installations dotted around the park as you explore.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Rich History: From Colliery to Countryside

Herrington Country Park stands on the site of the former Herrington Colliery, a significant part of Sunderland's industrial heritage. This transformation from a working mine to a vibrant public park is a testament to regeneration efforts. The Sunderland Story sculpture specifically commemorates this history, blending industrial themes with local pride, including nods to the beloved SAFC football club. TikTokInstagram

Visitors can appreciate how the landscape has been reshaped, offering a blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. The park's design incorporates elements that reflect its past while providing a welcoming space for recreation and relaxation. It's a place where history is not just remembered but integrated into the present experience. Reddit

This historical context adds a layer of depth to any visit, allowing you to connect with the area's past while enjoying its present-day amenities. It's a compelling narrative woven into the fabric of the park.

Family Fun and Accessibility

Herrington Country Park is a top recommendation for families looking for a day out. The park features a children's playground that keeps younger visitors entertained, while the vast open spaces are perfect for running, playing games, and enjoying the fresh air. Reddit

What makes it particularly appealing is its excellent accessibility. The well-maintained paths are suitable for wheelchairs, prams, and mobility scooters, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the park's beauty and amenities. This inclusivity means families with members of all ages and abilities can explore together comfortably. Reddit

Beyond the playground, the gentle walks around the lakes and the opportunity to see various bird species add an educational and engaging element for children. The presence of cafes also makes it easy to manage snacks and breaks for little ones. Instagram

Culinary Delights and Coffee Culture

The park has become a destination for foodies, thanks to the presence of Love Lily Sunderland, a popular cafe offering American-style pancakes, brunches, and more. Instagram+1 This sister site to the original Love Lily in Roker has transformed the former 'Cafe in the Park' into a vibrant eatery, open seven days a week. Instagram

In addition to Love Lily, various coffee trailers frequently set up shop, especially on weekends. These offer a welcome opportunity to grab a warm drink, a cake, or a doughnut while enjoying a walk or cycle. Instagram+1 They are particularly appreciated by those out for a morning run or a leisurely stroll. Instagram

These culinary additions enhance the visitor experience, providing convenient and tasty options for refueling. Whether you're after a full brunch or a quick coffee, Herrington Country Park caters to a range of tastes and needs, making it a well-rounded destination. Instagram

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