Herrington Country Park

Park

Explorer Tom

Herrington Country Park spreads over former colliery ground near Penshaw, with lakes, paths and the Penshaw Monument looming beyond like a landmark determined to appear in every photograph. Start beside the model boating lake and choose how much walking you fancy; the park has enough room to make even a modest circuit feel like an expedition. Sunderland City Council marks out three routes: a one-kilometre green route, a two-kilometre blue route and a three-kilometre red route. The country park was created on the former Herrington Colliery site and opened in 2001. A council and Durham Wildlife Trust study describes lakes and ponds along Herrington Burn, meadows, grassland and planted woodland. Coal once ruled this ground; now it is perfectly reasonable to come looking for a bird and end up finding a view. There is more than scenery. The same study lists a children’s play area, a bicycle and skate park, a miners’ memorial garden and sculptures around the park. Events can take over parts of the grounds, so check the council’s notices before planning a particularly quiet visit. Paths vary between tarmac, compact earth and gravel; the access guide warns of both slopes and uneven patches. The main car park has designated accessible spaces and an accessible route to the entrance. The published access guide lists the park as open from dawn until dusk, with free parking and toilets by the main car park. Bring sensible shoes, follow a marked route, and keep some time for the lakeside. Herrington has managed a fine trick: it remembers the miners while giving the rest of us a very good reason to wander.