Duration:
Half day
Price range:
Free
Suitable for:
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE
1 Quietest Corner
Head towards the Environment Centre and the Dragonfly Ponds for a calmer experience. It's especially good for little ones sensitive to noise from the main play area.
2 Best Penshaw View
For a great family photo with Penshaw Monument, walk up the path past the amphitheatre. This spot offers a clear, elevated view away from the busiest paths.
3 Perfect Scooter Path
The wide, flat paths circling the main lake are ideal for preschoolers learning to scoot or cycle. It's generally less hilly than some other park routes.
INSIDER TIP
Download our free Famday 'Herrington Nature Explorer' sheet from the Famday website before you go! It's packed with things to spot near the lake and ponds.
About Herrington Country Park
Explore the vast open spaces of Herrington Country Park, built on a former colliery site near Penshaw Monument. This award-winning park offers something for all the family. Discover numerous walking and cycling trails winding through diverse landscapes of woodland, ponds, and wildflower meadows. Kids love the large, well-equipped adventure play area, the skate park, and watching model boats on the lake. It hosts major events like the Sunderland Festival and concerts but is perfect for picnics, kite flying, and wildlife spotting on quieter days. A fantastic free resource for outdoor recreation and enjoying nature.
Suggested Family Itinerary Perfect for Kids
Make the most of your visit with this suggested timeline. Adjust based on your family's interests and pace.
Park & Play Power
Arrive, park up easily (it's huge!), and head straight to the massive adventure playground near the main car park to let the kids loose.
Lakeside Loop & Wildlife Watch
Enjoy a gentle walk or scoot around the main lake, spotting ducks and swans. The path is mostly flat and buggy/wheelchair friendly.
Picnic with a View
Unpack your lunch on the spacious grassy areas or grab a picnic table near the lake for a relaxing break with lovely views.
Sculpture Trail & Hilltop Views
Go exploring to find the park's striking sculptures dotted around, then tackle the main hill for rewarding views across to Penshaw Monument.
Amphitheatre Runaround
Let the kids have fun running, rolling, or playing games in the unique grass amphitheatre space near the lake.
Cafe Refuel or Final Play
Grab a well-deserved cuppa and cake at the park's cafe, or squeeze in one last go on the swings before heading off.
Nearby Nature: Penshaw Monument Visit
Just a 5-minute drive away, pop over to Penshaw Monument for iconic photos and more exploration (check National Trust website for details/access).
Pro Tips for Families:
- Bring bikes or scooters – the wide, flat paths around the lake are perfect for little wheels.
- Check the park's event schedule online before visiting, as large events can make parking busier and change the atmosphere.
- Pack wellies if it's been wet; some grassy areas and paths near the lake edges can get quite muddy.
- While there's a cafe, bringing your own picnic blanket and supplies gives you more freedom to find a quieter spot away from the main playground buzz.
Opening hours
Park: Open daily, dawn till dusk. Cafe/Visitor Centre hours vary, typically daytime (check locally).
Entry prices
Free admission to the park. Charges may apply for specific events held within the park or for activities like model boat club membership. Parking is generally free.
Birthday party hire
Room hire might be available in the park’s facilities for functions, but specific children’s party packages are not typically advertised. Contact Sunderland City Council.
Facilities
Contact Details & Directions
Herrington Country Park,
Chester Road,
Penshaw,
Sunderland,
DH4 7EL
Tel: 01915205555
Email: enquiries@sunderland.gov.uk
Explore More Days Out
Bamburgh Castle
Druridge Bay Country Park
Derwent Waterside Park
Go Ape Matfen
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