|
Stockton's Greenspaces |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||
| Home | | | Places to Visit | | | Care For Your Area | | | Countryside and Greenspace | | | What's On? | | | More Information | |||||||||
Welcome to Stockton's Green Spaces. Your guide to the parks and green space areas in Stockton.
Watch virtual views of areas before you visit, find out about events and download brochures and newsletters. Plus read about what each park has to offer you.
Bassleton WoodBassleton Wood is an area of ancient semi-natural woodland. In essence this means that the site has been in existence for at least 400 years. It is not only the trees that qualify an area for such designation but its plants, such as Dog's Mercury, too.
This is important because the trees at the site were completely felled towards the end of the Second World War. Its not entirely obvious why the trees were felled during this period, some people say it was because the trees were acting as an obstruction to incoming bomber planes when Thornaby had an airfield. Other people have stated that the timber was used for items such as pit props when the importation of timber proved problematic because of the war.
Had the River Tees remained tidal, The Holmes would have undoubtedly become an oxbow lake but with the Tees Barrage now in place it is unlikely that this will ever happen. The Holmes has a fish haven situated within it. This was created when the Tees Barrage was built in the 1990s to assist the development of young fish. The shallower water situated here warms up quicker than the main river and so aids the growth of fish and also provides a refuge when the river is more turbulent during periods of heavy rainfall etc. The Holmes and Bassleton Wood, whose boundaries merge with one another, were declared Local Nature Reserves in 1992 and cover approximately 31 acres in total.
Billingham Beck Valley Country Park
Designated as a Country Park in 1991 and a Local Nature Reserve in 1992, Billingham Beck Valley consists of a corridor of land predominantly within the original flood plain of Billingham Beck.
Regular winter flooding combined with traditional management has given rise to a rich and varied wetland grassland flora within the valley basin. Habitats within the site include woodland, meadows, ponds wetlands and a no-dogs study area for schools. A network of footpaths allows the visitor to explore the 50 hectare Country Park from several pedestrian access points.
Facilities include a Visitor Centre with recycling facilities, toilets, small shop (opening times vary), picnic area and car park. Access to the car park can be found off the A1027 Billingham/Norton turn-off from the A19 follow the brown tourist signs from the A19.
Contact the Countryside Rangers on (01642) 397609 or email them at billingham.beck@stockton.gov.uk.
Countryside EventsCharltons Pond is situated in Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees (OS Grid Ref. NZ467 232) and was originally owned by the Dean and Chapter of Durham. The site began its life at the turn of the 20th Century as an area for clay extraction to make bricks and tiles by the Cowpen Brickworks Company. However, shortly afterwards, the workings became flooded when underground springs were encountered and the pond came into existence.
In 1912 Mr. Jack Charlton and his friend, Major Tristram, leased the area for a period of 20 years for the princely sum of 10 shillings (50 pence) a year and stocked the pond with 250 Loch Leven trout.
As the nearby Cowpen estate was being built the local council asked the Dean and Chapter of Durham to fence off the water body to ensure that no child should fall into the water. Instead the pond was offered to the local council, who accepted it as an amenity and put forward ideas to develop the area for recreational purposes and for the site to become Teessides first nature reserve of any description.
Countryside EventsCowpen Bewley Woodland Park is a new area of woodland within the Tees Forest and is located on the edge of Billingham. The site was reclaimed from former brickworks, landfill and ex-agricultural land.
Although still in the early stages of growth, rapid development has led to the site's large variety of habitats and wildlife. These include grassland, a lake, a series of ponds and a beck flows around the boundary. The abundant wildlife consists of 80 species of bird, waterfowl, toads, newts and dragonflies in and around the ponds and 18 species of butterfly, hares, foxes and small mammals in the grassland.
Tree planting is essential for the management of the park to secure its future. Since 1990 a staggering 300,000 trees have been planted, including the sturdy Oak, the ash, pine, sycamore, cherry, alder and the stooping willow. This tree planting is a great way to get involved in with your local community and many schools, churches and other local groups have been involved. Why not come along and make a difference to your local environment, through this rewarding experience.
The lake, which was formerly a clay pit, is a great location for birdwatching. The hay meadows provide a peaceful location for a picnic, as they provide large areas of open space. While you relax your children can explore the wide range of wildlife that the meadows support. For example there are many small mammals and birds including the skylark.
Orienteering is an enjoyable navigation sport using specially drawn and detailed maps. Cowpen Bewley has a permanent course, which you can do for fun or take part in a competition.
Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park believes environmental education to be very important and therefore offer a wide range of education programmes to suit all ages. We are keen to involve school groups in activities and are flexible to suit teachers' requirements. If there is an area of environmental work you need to cover, please ring to discuss and we will try and meet your requirements. We are also happy to work with youth and community groups of all ages.
You can get a Green Bus grant of up to 100 towards the cost of hiring a coach or minibus, so that you can bring your pupils or groups to Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park. This is available from the Tees Forest for school and community groups who would normally have difficulty in accessing the countryside. Details available from the Tees Forest.
Countryside EventsThe Great North Park (GNP) is situated within the centre of Stockton and was created around the old Billingham - Stockton freight line. It encompasses areas from Tilery, Portrack, Primrose Hill and Norton.
The freight line was opened in the 1910's by L.N.E.R. carrying freight and passengers throughout the area. The freight line served the expanding chemical company I.C.I. transferring bulk chemicals and fertilizers until the market declined and the line closed down in 1989. It stood unused until 1993 when Cleveland Council bought the land for reclamation for a proposed walkway/cycleway. The rail tracks and ballast were removed the same year and it was to lie untouched until November 1994.
Until the 1960's railway verges, cuttings and banks were traditionally managed by regular burning off as a safeguard against fires from sparks from steam engines. The broken ballast that firmed up the rails was also regularly sprayed with weedkiller. After this time the management would consist of regular scrub and grass cutting that led to a type of vegetation developing which was particular to railside verges and surrounding areas. When the Billingham Branch railway closed down in 1989 management of the area ceased which led to the loss of particular habitats.
During 1993 consultation took place with the local residents regarding the development of the sites and commencement for the proposed development took place in 1994.
The first phase took place in the north west of the site to develop areas in and around the beck and marshland. The railway embankment was restructured and stabilised through the planting of numerous tree whips and shrubs. This work was undertaken in the 1994/5 financial year.
The area to the south and around the allotments near to Ida Street was developed again with whips and shrubs. This area was protected through the erection of a post and wire netting fence to allow the plants to establish in the early years. An area of wildflower meadow was created and a play area designated. Other areas of the Billingham Branch cutting were structurally planted. This work was carried out during the 1995/6 financial year. Tilery Park and Primrose Hill Park were landscaped with trees, shrubs and whips again protected by post and wire fencing and a manageable children's play area were among some of the facilities installed.
Tucked away in the heart of Stockton, Hardwick Dene is a mosaic of habitats, from wildflower meadow, through to thorn scrub and woodland. Orchids, Ragged Robin and Devilsbit Scabious are among the many species of wildflower found here.
Old maps of the area (from 1859 and 1911) show that the southern valley was formerly a timber plantation (Hardwick Plantation), the northern valley was simply a beck with some scrub along it, and Elm Tree Wood was roughly the same in shape and extent as it is now. The whole area was surrounded by agricultural land, with only a few farms present. Darlington Back Lane separated elm Tree Wood from Hardwick Plantation.
In February 2004 Stockton Borough Council declared the site as a Local Nature Reserve as Hardwick Dene is one of the best examples in the Lower Tees Valley of a wildflower meadow, with over 80 species of plant being recorded there. The Dene has had over 18 species of butterfly recorded at the site including the rare White-letter Hairstreak butterfly whose caterpillar feed exclusively on Elm.
Elm Tree Wood is a small area of mature, mixed-deciduous woodland. As its name suggests, the wood contains a number of Elm trees, along with Oak, Ash, Alder, Sycamore and Cherry, with an understorey mainly composed of Hawthorn and Holly.
At the south-western edge of the wood there is an area of hawthorn scrub surrounding a small area of flower-rich grassland.
Several years ago Cleveland County Council purchased the old gravel tip here and began to manage the site for wildlife.
Now known as Honeypot Wood this land was originally part of the common fields of the village of Whitton that were enclosed around 1617. By 1818 the land had become a country park and by 1892 it was part of a mixed dairy farm with hedgerows dividing the farm into three fields. The field nearest to the road was known as Honeypot and became part of a small estate called Whitton House that was purchased by the Robinson family around 1896. Then in 1917 the Thurston family moved in as tenant farmers until the early 1960s.
Before the war a small portion of the land was used as a quarry for sand and gravel but this became uneconomical and closed down. Around 1965 the estate was sold with the farmland bought by Hoveringham who ran a local quarry in nearby Stillington. They were able to extract sand and gravel from 1966 to 1971 then it closed once again.
The surrounding land was restored but the quarry was left as a large hole in the ground. The Council purchased the land as a tip for the ash remains from the old Portrack Incinerator. The tip was completed in the early 1980s, capped, restored and made into the woodland park that you see here today.
John Whitehead Park was originally opened in 1957 and is situated in the centre of Billingham on the northern side of the town centre.
The park is easily accessible from the surrounding roads, Finchale Avenue, Tintern Crescent and Melrose Avenue and is separated from the town centre by the Causeway. The park serves the whole population of Billingham, approximately 37,000 people and covers an area of 7.2 hectares.
Having undergone recent improvements to the area, the park now boasts new shrub areas, signage, bins and benches. Proposals for new park gates have been agreed and a new sensory garden has been planted.
The regeneration of the park will contribute towards the aspiration to support the whole community by working to regenerate the Billingham area, promote community activity and improve the delivery of public services.
Littleboy Park is a recreational park adjacent to Mandale Linear Park. Its current facilities are a play area, bowling green and tennis courts.
The new Linear Park is another feature of the multi-million pound redevelopment of Mandale and includes a network of cycle ways and footpaths, art features, seating and two adult sized football pitches, for all the community to use and enjoy.
The park was officially opened on June 5th 2008 and to celebrate, Thornaby Community School and St. Patricks Comprehensive contested the first Mandale Park Cup. Congratulations to Thornaby Community School who won the game 7-2 and well done to Lewis Sirrell who was chosen as Man of the Match and received a pair of football boots from Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing. It was a great event and we hope to make the Mandale Park Cup an annual event.
Village ParkNewham Grange Park is a large area of greenspace in the heart of Stockton. In the ward of Bishopsgarth and Elm tree it also serves as a recreational area for the adjacent areas of Newtown, Roseworth and Hardwick. The area has recently undergone some major redevelopment works, including the installation of a new play area, shrub clearance and biodiversity improvements to the beck.
Facilities include a Visitor Centre with recycling facilities, toilets, small shop (opening times vary), picnic area and car park. Access to the car park can be found off the A1027 Billingham/Norton turn-off from the A19 follow the brown tourist signs from the A19.
At the centre of the park is a large field that can easily accommodate two full size adult football pitches and two junior football pitches. One large area of uncut grassland at the park will be turned into a hay meadow, providing food and shelter for small creatures and insects. Also, because the meadow forms the first rung of a food chain, small mammals and birds will come to the area potentially attracting larger creatures such as foxes and larger birds such as hawks.
Work that has been undertaken recently includes the reshaping of the beck with the result of creating different areas of water flow and depth. Areas of still water were created by widening the banks of the beck to encourage creatures such as Dragonflies, Pond Skaters and Diving Water Beetles to come to the beck. There will also be areas of deep water encouraging some of the bottom dwellers like the Freshwater Mussel or the Leech to move in. These creatures will in turn attract larger animals, like the Heron or the Water Vole.
Stocktons premier park, Preston Park provides the opportunity for a large number of visitors to enjoy both the magnificent location, adjacent to the River Tees, and to take part in any of the wide range of activities available there. Within its 45 hectares, Preston Park incorporates large areas of amenity grassland, mature woodland, a fish haven, duck pond, two childrens play areas, crazy golf, small gauge railway, Butterfly World and Preston Hall Museum.
Separate landing platforms on the river bank allow passengers on and off the Teesside Princess Riverboat and users of small boats to gain access to the river. A number of large events take place in the park each year, including the Stockton Summer Show and the Autumn Gold Festival.
For information on Preston Hall Museum, call (01642) 781184. .
Preston Hall MuseumSituated at the heart of Ingleby Barwick, Romano park lies to the west of Barwick Way and is bounded to the North by Tescos superstore and the playing fields of Myton Park school, and to the south by St Francis of Assissi Church Centre, Ingleby Nursing Home, Beckfields Primary School and residential areas at the western end of the site.
The park is 5.2 hectares in size and the name of the park originated through consultation with local residents who wanted to emphasise the links with Roman Ingleby Barwick, and the fact that the most northerly Villa in the UK has been discovered nearby.
The main features and current use of the park include a large area of playing field, large enough to accommodate a football pitch and there is a small play area with one small multi-play unit.
0.27ha of the land is designated a Local Nature Reserve and is called Barwick Pond. Constructed as a relocation pond in 1994 the site is the home of the Great Crested Newt, public access is not permitted here.
Future development works include the installation of furniture, e.g. bins, benches and notice boards, a central area for relaxation and rest including sculptures and seating and to plant specimen trees wherever possible.
Ropner Park has already held a number of successful concerts in the new Bandstand and are looking to put on a full programme for Sundays.
The play area is proving very popular with children and adults alike. Even when the weather is not at it's best we still have families coming along to the Park to visit the themed play area. Parents and grandparents can even enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee from the cafe in the new Ropner Park Pavilion. The cafe is now open seven days a week.
Along with the cafe and play area in the central hub of the park are the newly restored tennis courts. We are currently working with different partners to establish tennis at Ropner Park . If you are interested in tennis and would like to be involved in the setting up of a club, please contact the Parks and Countryside Team.
One facility in the Park that still provides a talking point for visitors is the art feature, called 'Fish Swallowing Bird'. This is located on the site where Dodshons drinking fountain used to be. The fountain was originally located in Stockton town centre. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the fountain was moved to Ropner Park in response to fishmongers from Stockton market gutting and cleaning their fish in the waters of the fountain! Because of its long association with the Park, the Heritage Lottery Fund decided to allow the installation of a contemporary art feature where Dodshons drinking fountain once stood.
The restored fountain is a popular attraction and even the local residents took to using it during the hot summer. (The Park's squirrels were seen cooling down in it on a number of occasions!). The overall impact of the fountain has been enhanced by the floral displays on the embankment adjacent to the fountain, as well as the display of colourful bedding plants alongside the path from the main entrance off Hartburn Lane.
The gates will be opened every morning at 6.00am throughout the year. The gates will be locked at 9.00pm.
Friends of Ropner ParkIn February 2004 Stillington Forest Park was declared a Local Nature Reserve. It occupies the site of a former slagheap from a neighbouring ironworks with the majority of the iron slag being removed before the 1970s when it was realised that stillite, a form of insulation, could be obtained from the slag waste.
Even whilst the site was a slagheap, wildlife moved into the area and used what resources were available when birds such as crows would nest in the crevices of the cooled molten slag waste. In effect the waste became like a cliff face to these creatures. After the majority of the slag waste had been recycled the land was left to revegetate naturally until the end of the 1980s when the potential of the site to be used as a recreational resource was first identified. In 1989 an ecological survey was undertaken with a view to the reclamation of the tip.
In 1995/6 the Stillington Forest Park Scheme was designed and implemented. This involved major re-profiling of the site, which was then capped with a layer of clay over any remaining slag. In April 1995, the management of Stillington Forest Park transferred to the newly established unitary council of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and with the exception of an area of scrub at the north of the site all of the habitats were created artificially. Many thousands of trees were planted and a wildflower seed mix was incorporated into the area.
Stillington Forest Park is now home to many species of butterfly and is a particularly good site for dragonflies and damselflies. As the trees mature it is envisaged that more woodland bird species will join the Grey Herons, Moorhens and Swans that are often seen here.
The Castle Eden Walkway was opened to the public as a Country Park in 1981. Based on a section of the old Stockton to Wellfield railway line, it started life as one of several nature trails throughout the country established on old railway track beds. In 1983 the old Stationmaster's house was opened as a Visitor Centre and in 1989 an extension, built as a faithful reproduction of the previously demolished waiting room, was added.
Over time it has expanded in line with its popularity. Its most recent acquisition, the purchase of more than 81 Hectares of woodland and farmland, has virtually doubled the size of the site and changed the nature of it to such an extent that it can no longer be regarded as a mere 'walkway'. This exciting new development prompted the decision to re-name the site to something more in keeping with its new status. It will now be known as the Wynyard Woodland Park.
This is an exciting time for the Park, with the old Thorpe Thewles railway station buildings (King George V would de-train here when visiting Lord Londonderry's Wynyard estate) being completely refurbished thanks to funding from the Countryside Agency's Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund. Improvements to existing visitor attractions have included a cafeteria, a farm shop selling produce from local farms, and the development of a number of teaching resources for use by local schools.
Perhaps the most spectacular of these teaching resources is the acquisition of an authentic railway carriage, which has been converted into a classroom and resource centre for use by visiting school parties.
Other developments taking place at this exciting time include important habitat management work. Pond creation works, pond restoration and the creation of wildflower meadows has been funded through English Nature's Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund and will help to enhance the biodiversity of the site for nature conservation, education and the enjoyment of future generations.
PlanetariumLook out for Stockton's new Waste and Recycling Revolution, coming up your street soon.
Our Let's Talk Rubbish survey undertaken earlier this year showed just how many residents want to help the planet by recycling more, and Stockton Council has acted on the results of the survey. Stockton Council is underlining its commitment to improving recycling facilities by introducing plastic and cardboard kerbside collections in the near future.
The Council's Environment Awareness Team will be visiting your area soon in Stockton's Green Machine, giving out recycling information of the new plastic and cardboard scheme.
Watch this space to find out when and where plastic and cardboard will begin to be collected from the kerbside, and soon you too can be part of the revolution!
Recycling from home is easier than ever with the Stockton Council. We offer a kerbside recycling collection of most homes across the Stockton Borough.
Use you blue box to recycle:
Please rinse these items before recycling.
Use your blue bag to recycle:
Your blue bag is collected once a fortnight on the same day as your normal wheelie bin collection. You can find your collection day by taking a look at the Recycling Collections downloadable information. Alternatively please contact us.
Please remove the blue box and bag from the kerbside as soon as you can once they have been emptied.
If you don't already have a recycling box and bag and would like to join the scheme, need help to put your recycling out for collection or need any advice about recycling, please contact Care For Your Area Services or call into the Environment Centre.
Countryside and GreenspaceStockton has some fantastic parks, countryside, woodlands and other green spaces - great places to walk, cycle, play or simply relax. Everything from the Victorian splendour of Ropner Park through to the natural beauty of Billingham Beck Valley Country Park.
Welcome also to the first edition of the Countryside and Greenspace Newsletter - providing the latest news on the Borough's parks, greenspaces, countryside, trees and woodlands. (download the document and see what exciting projects and initiatives are being led by the team).
A number of exciting projects are being developed to enhance the Borough's parks, greenspaces and countryside.
Stockton is celebrating after retaining not one but three prestigious Green Flags for its country parks.
Wynyard Woodland Park, Billingham Beck Valley Country Park and Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park have all been judged as meeting the Civic Trust's strict criteria for high standards of service provision. Also awarded the prestigious Green Flag for the first time is Ropner Park.
David Askey, Stockton's Countryside Recreation officer said: "This is a wonderful accolade for all three country parks. Staff work hard to create thriving, popular places which people flock to for all sorts of leisure activities. A special thanks must go to our dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, friends groups and members of the park's Environmental Trusts who work tirelessly with the countryside rangers to ensure standards are kept high and the parks are pleasant places to visit."
This is the third consecutive year that Billingham Beck Valley Country Park and Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park have received the award and the second for Wynyard Woodland Park.
All three country parks are popular with visitors from across the Tees Valley area and provide opportunites for a wide range of activities relating to education, recreation and conservation.
Your local park...
Litter-strewn or litter free?
Brilliant or boring?
A no-go area or a safe place to be?
....What would make it better?
Now is the time to have your say...
GreenSTAT is a system that gives local residents the opportunity to comment on the quality of their open spaces and how well they feel they are being managed and maintained. It allows site managers to compare the results with others up and down the country to give a truly national voice of what we think about our open spaces.
Stockton has some of the best parks and countryside sites in England. Our volunteers and friends groups play a crucial part in our success.
Stockton has one of the leading Countryside Management Services in the region and volunteers play a crucial role in that sucess. Countryside Volunteers provide regular assistance to the site-based Countryside Rangers in all areas of work, including running countryside events and guided walks, carrying out practical conservation tasks and providing information to visitors.
Volunteers of all ages* and abilities are made welcome and tasks can be provided to suit the skills of the volunteer. All help is gratefully received, whether it's two hours or two days a month - it's up to you just how much or how little you become involved.
So if you would like to socialise with a bunch of friendly like minded people and want to help look after Stockton's Countryside into the bargain, contact the Countryside Recreation Officer for further information on (01642) 526877.
*Volunteers must be over 16 years of age
The management of the Council's tree stock is co-ordinated by a team of qualfied Arborists based within the Development and Neighbourhood Services department.
The main aim of the Council is to ensure a high standard of tree care and maintenance in line with arboricultural best practices and to promote sustainable tree management. This includes undertaking regular surveys and inspections of trees, annual tree maintenance programmes and planting of new trees.
All tree work is carried out by specialist Arboricultural contractors in line with industry best practices.
We also give general advice to the public on the management of trees. (Please see downloadable information leaflet).
The Council has corporate membership with the Arboricultural Association and International Society of Arboriculture.
EventsStepping Out In Stockton Health Walks.
Walking is set to play a bigger role in creating a healthier nation. Described by health experts as 'almost perfect exercise', walking requires no equipment or expense and is the ideal way for most people to become more active. Seven out of every ten people in this country are not physically active enough to benefit their health!
It's good to walk!
Regular walking has been proven to provide many health benefits, particularly if undertaken for five thirty-minute sessions each week. There are both long and short term benefits to regular walking. In the long term it can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure, type II diabetes, bowel cancer and reduce the development of osteoporosis.
The short term benefits of regular walking include weight loss, better strength and mobility, improved mood and a general feeling of better health and wellbeing.
In short, walking regularly can improve many aspects of your life. Most importantly, its free and no special equipment is required as all walks are along hard surfaces; most of our walks are accessible to pushchair and wheelchair users.
Did you know?
Walking briskly for 45 minutes a day, 4 days a week, without a change in diet, can make you lose 18lbs in a year. It's good to walk!
Group and independent walking.
Walking as part of one of our groups can be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Group walk details can be found below, and are a great way to discover more of your local neighbourhoods. All group walks are lead by a qualified walk leader and back up leader, allowing all abilities of walkers to attend.
Independent walking is a perfect time for quiet reflection, especially when walking through the local countryside. Shortly, an independent walkers pack will be available, which will give suggested routes for walks that can be undertaken at your leisure.
Regular Weekly Walks from: Billingham, Eaglescliffe, Stockton Town Centre (lunchtime special), Norton, Newtown Resource Centre, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre. Fortnightly Walks - Out and about with Roger at Norton.
Download the leaflet for dates and details!The Women's Running Network is an all womens running group founded in 1998 in Devon by Pauline Beare and Peggy Wiseman.
The success is based on a simple philosophy:
Giving all women whatever their age, size or ability the opportunity to run together to improve their health, fitness, confidence and safety.
Stocktons Leisure & Sports Development Team have a beginner and intermediates group - we'd love you to join us!
For more details of your local group please contact Joanne Heron, Health & Fitness Development Officer on 01642 526697 or e-mail joanne.heron@stockton.gov.uk.e
Fit 2 Push
An exercise session for mums wanting to get back in shape after having a baby.
Each session consists of power walking and resistance exercise to tone those troublesome areas.
No childcare needed - bring your baby in your buggy!
Tuesday, Ropner Park, 1.15pm - 2.15pm, Sunrise Childrens Centre, Yarm Rd, Stockton
Wednesday, Preston Park, 11.00am - 12.00pm, Meet in main car park
Thursday, Billingham, 1.00pm - 2.00pm, Footsteps Childrens Centre, Ochil Terrace, Billingham
Friday, Preston Park, 10.00am - 11.00am, Meet in main car park
Friday, Preston Park, 11.00am - 12.00pm, Meet in main car park
Prambles
Walking is an excellent way of getting fit and meeting new friends. But much nicer in a group!
Join us with your baby for a gentle walk around local areas.
This session is open to mums, dads, grandparents and carers.
Tuesday, Ingleby Barwick, 11.30am - 12.30pm, Barleyfields Childrens Centre, Lamb Lane, Ingleby Barwick
1st Class is free, then 1 per class thereafter.
For more information please call Joanne Heron, Health & Fitness Development Officer on 01642 526697 or e-mail joanne.heron@stockton.gov.uk
Join Leisure & Sports Development for a morning of fun activities to raise money for Comic Relief and get you fit!
Friday 13th March
Ropner Park, Stockton
10.30 - 11.30am, Fit 2 Push post natal exercise class, Join Vicky and Jo for an action packed session! Meet at the bandstand (Preston Park classes cancelled on this day)
12.00 - 1.00pm, Health Walk. Steve and the team will be leading a 2 mile walk through the park and surrounding areas. Meet at the bandstand.
Everyone Welcome!
To take part youll need to wear something red and make a donation to Comic Relief.
BOOKING ESSENTIAL - to book a place please contact Leisure & Sports Development on 01642 526697.
More Information DownloadsTo view the following leaflets you will need a pdf reader.
The following are a list of useful Council Links and external sites for further information and related interest.
Stockton Borough Council Countryside and Greenspace
Stockton has some fantastic parks, countryside, woodlands and other green spaces - great places to walk, cycle, play or simply relax. become moreaware of the area's natural environment and the issues facing it.
www.stockton.gov.uk/citizenservices/environment/parksandopen
Stockton Borough Council Care For Your Area
The Care For Your Area Team are responsible for a whole host of local environmental services.
www.stockton.gov.uk/citizenservices/environment/CFYA
Stockton Borough Council Tourist Information
Let us take the hassle out of finding accommodation. Our helpful staff can find somewhere to suit your requirements and accommodation can be booked for you by the TIC staff.
www.stockton.gov.uk/citizenservices/leisure
Civic Trust Green Flag Award
The Green Flag Award is the national standard for parks and green spaces creating a benchmark of excellence in recreational green areas.
www.greenflagaward.org.uk
GreenSTAT
GreenSTAT is a system that gives local residents the opportunity to comment on the quality of their open spaces.
www.greenstat.org.uk
Wynyard Planetarium
Wynyard Planetarium clapresents education & entertainment based shows to schools, colleges, community groups and the general public, all of whom share in the excitement of space & space exploration.
www.wynyard-planetarium.net
Freda The Frog
The free fan club for children that makes recycling fun. Send a postcard, play games or even learn how to make your own compost.
www.fredathefrog.co.uk
Cycle Routes In Stockton
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is committed to promoting cycling both as a sustainable mode of transport and as a healthy leisure activity.
www.stockton.gov.uk/citizenservices/transport/CyclinginCleveland/cyclew
The Village Park is situated in Thornaby and can be found between Thornaby Road and Thorntree Road.
Facilities at this community park will ultimately include a multi-use games area that will replace the existing 5-a-side football pitch, the creation of a play trail around the park, which will follow the line of the perimeter path. This trail being marked with games and motifs designed by local schoolchildren.
All of the footpaths in the park will be resurfaced and new art feature gates, designed by local residents, will be installed that will also allow the park to be closed at night.
Standing in over 100 acres of magnificent parkland, Preston Hall was built in 1825. It was opened as Stockton's first public museum in 1953. Situated on the A135 - Yarm Road, Stockton, the museum is well sign posted. It has level access to the ground floor and Victorian Street and has toilet facilities for disabled patrons.
The museum provides a wonderful opportunity to explore domestic life of the past with the many recreated period rooms ranging from an 1880s parlour to a 1960s bedsit. There is also a recreation of a typical Victorian street where demonstrations of traditional crafts can be seen.
In addition to these year round displays, the museum offers a varied programme of changing exhibitions and special events.
The museum is open daily
10.00am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday
Saturday / Sunday 11.00am - 4.30pm
Last Admission 4.00pm
Visitors can walk amongst the butterflies in this mini tropical paradise that is home to hundreds of exotic species. It is also home to other creatures, including snakes, spiders and prairie dogs.
Open: February - October Daily 10.00am - 4.30pm (last entry 4pm)
( For the month of february please call in advance for confirmation of opening days and times. Closed throughout winter months)
Admission: 3.30 adults, 2.50 Children / Concessions,
Family ticket 10.50 - 2 Adults and up to 3 Children
For some time before 1992 a small group of model engineers of Teesside were meeting each other at various portable miniature railway events. The views of that time were expressed that it would be nice to have a permanent railway within Middlesbrough or nearby to run models that have been made. No particular length of track was in mind but just somewhere to lay some line and perhaps have a clubhouse.
Searching began in earnest driven by the late Bob Waters. Many potential venues were considered and hoped for even before the first informal meeting which was held on Monday the 3rd February 1992 at the Parklands Pub, Smith's Dock Park, Eston. Another was held the following week on the 10th. At this one 9 people sported 10 each and another 50 as an expression of meaningful determination to find a club site. Monday 24th February 1992 was the first formal meeting when the essential roles were elected into posts and the group duly named the Kirkleatham Small Gauge Railway, as there was a possibility at the Redcar Museum. This of course did not mature but an offer emerged at Preston Park. The group had hoped for a place nearer to Middlesbrough but this offer was too good to lose. It was a captivating prospect and everyone became inspired and motivated. However there was concern about the commitment to run an intense public railway, as this was more than the original idea.
The base elements of the plan have not changed. We were so fortunate to have the land and the buildings offered by the Stockton Borough Council Parks Department. Intense fund raising continued by running battery locomotives on a portable track at events. In those early days we had the use of the councils small earthmover (Not Brian but a JCB!). What a boon that was. Then right at the right time an application was made and a significant grant was added to the funds. The only one we have ever had which was such a help getting things started. The voluntary group had to agree on priorities and in particular setting the line down, as this would generate income for what lay ahead for the rather green volunteers. Many skills were and are required and indeed determined people joined the venture. The railway has a strong place in the hearts of many volunteer members. A great deal has been achieved. It is to the credit of those who have been members and those who volunteer today. Thousands of passengers have enjoyed a journey on the little railway and many enjoy running the trains.
The River Tees Rangers work along the Tees corridor in Stockton Borough. They manage a range of sites including Bassleton Woods and the Holmes Local Nature Reserve, Thornaby Wood, Black Bobby's Local Nature Reserve, The Teesdale Way Footpath and the wooded areas of Preston Park including Quarry Woods Local Nature Reserve.
The Rangers lead themed school visits looking at many topics on a range of sites. They also run walks and activities as part of Stockton Council's events programme and are available to lead walks and talks for other organised groups. The service is based at Preston Park although there is no Countryside Visitor Centre there at present.
Located between Richardson Road, Thornaby and the River Tees. Although only a small site of some 6 hectares nestled up against housing in Thornaby, this reserve is host to a range of wildlife. It was decalred a Local Nature Reserve in 1992. There are developing woodland, wet meadows, a large pond and a fish haven connected to the river. A footpath elevated for much of its length on an earthen mound goes around the site giving good views of the meadows, ponds and river. A metal bridge takes the walker across the neck of the fish haven.
There is no visitor centre or parking available. The site is pedestrian access only. Walk down Green Lane by the side of the Jolly Farmers pub on Thornaby Road. As you approach the social club take the track to the right down the green. Pass through the metal gate and follow the track, turning left before the river. The river is now on your right and Black Bobby's Field is accessed via the next metal gate.
If you would like to become involved in the management and development of Ropner Park why not join the Friends of Ropner Park?
The group was formed in 2002 and has already held many highly successful events, including this years Park IT event. The event was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and organised by GreenSpace in partnership with local community groups.
These events will inspire communities to discover the history of their parks and celebrate their significance to the people that use them.
Wynyard Planetarium was opened in 2002, by the renowned Historian of Astronomy Professor Allan Chapman from Oxford University. Since when it has presented education & entertainment based shows to schools, colleges, community groups and the general public; all of whom have shared in the excitement of space & space exploration.
During term-time the planetarium is used largely by schools and colleges throughout the day. Star shows that concentrate on pre-school, National Curriculum key stage material, GCSE astronomy, A-level through to University level astronomy & physics content can be requested. As well as planetarium shows a variety of external activities are available, including our Solar Walk, Celestial Kitchen and joint activities with the Country Park Rangers.
The Planetarium has an active involvement from members of both local astronomical societies: Cleveland and Darlington Astronomical Society & Durham Astronomical Society. Members of these are on hand at all Planetarium and Observatory events to answer your questions and show you the wonder of a starry night sky.
A visit to the planetarium & observatory will keep you up-to-date with what's happening in the sky year round and is great fun for all the family. For further details contact the planetarium director, Dr Ed Restall on 01740 630544, or e-mail is director@wynyard-planetarium.net - alternatively visit our web-site at www.wynyard-planetarium.net.
Wynyard Observatory was opened in 1994, by the then 14th Astronomer Royal Professor Sir Arnold Wolfendale. The observatory originally housed an 8inch refracting telescope, the largest of its kind in the North of England, and many thousands of people enjoyed the views through this until the observatory was refurbished in 2001.
It now houses a 19inch reflecting telescope, also believed to be the largest of its kind in the North of England, and a 10inch state-of-the-art computer controlled telescope system. The observatory & its telescopes form the centre piece of regular Friday night public observing at the observatory & planetarium. This takes place between the months of September & April at 9p.m. every Friday evening provided the sky is clear.
This activity has taken place for well over 20 years and thousands of people from the Borough & beyond have seen the wonders of the night sky through one or more of the planetarium & observatories 10 telescopes or through those of members of the local astronomical societies.
We also run a Telescope Club on the last Friday of every month at 7.30pm in the planetarium from September to April. This is an informal meeting of amateur astronomers and members of the public who would like to discuss anything from how to use their telescope and what they can see with it, through to repairs and alterations.
A visit to the planetarium & observatory will keep you up-to-date with what's happening in the sky year round and is great fun for all the family. For further details contact the planetarium director, Dr Ed Restall on 01740 630544, or e-mail is director@wynyard-planetarium.net - alternatively visit our web-site at www.wynyard-planetarium.net.
The visitor centre is usually the starting point for anyone making a visit to the park. The building itself is a Victorian station house dating from the 1850s and has been refurbished several times, most recently in 2004. It is home to the Gift Shop, Farm Shop and Tea Rooms and is the site base for the countryside rangers.
The area adjacent to the visitor centre contains the car park, bus stop, planetarium, observatory, railway carriage schoolroom and public toilet block. There are two play areas, a BBQ area and many picnic benches distributed around the immediate vicinity of the car park.
The visitor centre being an old station building is sited on a platform that provides pleasant and unusual seating amenities, with the area directly outside of the tearooms fenced off for patrons to enjoy the al fresco dining experience.
The recently converted Station House Tea Rooms has been classically designed to provide a relaxing and user friendly spot for site visitors such as walkers and cyclists, disabled facilities are available.
The beautiful, period building located in the park's idyllic surroundings is perfect for a light lunch or to catch up with friends and family with an outdoor patio area at the rear commonly used by dog walkers.
Much of the food and flavours available through Tees Cuisine is reflected in the menu and daily specials at the Tea Rooms. The menus are changed seasonally and aim to provide something for all tastes and ages.
Standard food fare of chips and deep fried goods are off the menu and provided instead are seasonal meals, reflecting the current harvests and available produce.
A selection of fine teas, coffees and other beverages are on offer along with a wide range of home baked cakes, slices and scones.
Riverside walks...cycle trails...beautiful parks...fantastic play areas...wild wetlands and woodlands...Stockton really does have it all. Read below for the upcoming varied events.
Sunday,19th October
11.00am - 1.00pm
Funky Fungi
Cant tell your shaggy ink cap from your wood blewitt? Join expert Tom Kirby on a foray into the mysterious world of mushrooms and toadstools.
Meet: Outside the Station House Visitor Centre
Special interest walk
Wednesday,29th October
3.00pm - 5.00pm
Woodland Spooks Trail
Join us if you dare and follow a spooky trail around the wood followed by a creepy craft session in the haunted railway carriage. A childrens event suitable for ages 5-9.
Booking essential. Charge 50p per child
Sunday,9th November
1.00pm - 2.30pm
Wild Woods
A nature walk in the autumnal splendour of Thorpe Wood Local Nature Reserve.
Please bring a torch and wear sturdy shoes.
Meet: Outside the Station House Visitor Centre.
Sunday,7th December
11.00 - 3.30pm
Christmas Crafts
A festive drop-in craft session for families. Make cards, Christmas creatures and other crafty things from recycled and natural materials. A small charge will apply for some crafts.
Meet: At the Railway carriage
Family event
Sunday,21st December
7.00pm - 8.30pm
In the Bleak Midwinter
Celebrate the shortest day with tales of long ago, a candle-lit walk and winter warming refreshments.
Meet: Outside the Station House Visitor Centre
Family event
Sunday,11th January
1.00pm - 4.00pm
Windmill Walk
Enjoy the woods and farmland on this 6.5mile walk that takes in Embleton and the new windmills near the A689.
Meet: Tilery Wood car park off the A689
Sunday,25th January
3.00pm - 5.00pm
Four Village Loop
A 6.5mile stroll from Wynyard Woodland park to Thorpe Thewles, Stillington, Whiton and Carlton.
Wednesday,18th February
1.30pm - 3.30pm
Wildlife Fact Finding Mission
How much does a bat weigh? How many hearts has a worm? Join the ranger on a walk around the park and learn the answers to these questions and much more about some of the parks wildlife inhabitants.
Meet: Outside the Station House Visitor Centre
Kids event
Sunday,22nd February
10.30pm - 4.00pm
Wildlife Fact Finding Mission
How much does a bat weigh? How many hearts has a worm? Join the ranger on a walk around the park and learn the answers to these questions and much more about some of the parks wildlife inhabitants.
Meet: Outside the Station House Visitor Centre
Kids event
Wednesday,18th February
1.30pm - 3.30pm
Wildlife Gardening for Beginners
Ever wondered how to attract more wildlife into your garden? Get some useful tips and advice from the countryside ranger and youll soon have a garden full of wildlife to watch and enjoy from the comfort of your armchair.
Meet: Outside the Railway Carriage
Special interest talk, accessible for all
Wynyard Planetarium & Observatory
Public Planetarium Shows
Public shows last for about one and a half hours in total.
Friday, 5th September 2008
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 19th September 2008
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Friday, 3rd October 2008
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 17th October 2008
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Friday, 7th November 2008
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 21st November 2008
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Friday, 5th December 2008
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 19th December 2008
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Friday, 2nd January 2009
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 16th January 2009
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
The above crossed out shows have had to be cancelled due to on-going maintenance & repairs. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Friday, 6th February 2009
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 20th February 2009
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Friday, 6th March 2009
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 20th March 2009
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Friday, 3rd April 2009
7.30pm
What's Up?
Friday, 17th April 2009
7.30pm
Powers of Ten: Size of the Universe
Planetarium Events
All events are at Wynyard Woodland Park unless otherwise stated. All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Friday, 5th,12th,19th and 26th September 2008
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 12th September 2008
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 27th September 2008
7.30pm
Telescope Club
Friday, 3rd,10th,17th,24th and 31st October 2008
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 10th October 2008
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 31st October 2008
7.30pm
Telescope Club
Friday, 7th,14th,21st and 28th November 2008
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 14th November 2008
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 28th November 2008
7.30pm
Telescope Club
The above crossed out shows have had to be cancelled due to on-going maintenance & repairs. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Friday, 5th,12th and 19th December 2008
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 12th December 2008
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 2nd,9th,16th,23rd and 30th January 2009
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 9th January 2009
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 30th January 2009
7.30pm
Telescope Club
The above crossed out shows have had to be cancelled due to on-going maintenance & repairs. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Friday, 6th,13th,20th and 27th February 2009
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 13th February 2009
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 27th February 2009
7.30pm
Telescope Club
Friday, 6th,13th,20th and 27th March 2009
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 13th March 2009
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 27th March 2009
7.30pm
Telescope Club
Friday, 3rd,10th,17th and 24th April 2009
9.00pm
Public Observing
Friday, 10th April 2009
7.15pm
CaDAS meeting
Friday, 24th April 2009
7.30pm
Telescope Club
Sunday, 12th October
Noon - 4.00pm
Trains, Rails & Rockets
Take part in an archaeological dig on the Worlds first public railway line in Preston Park with Tees Archaeology. Find out how a steam engine works and explore our developing impact on the planet from steam to petrol engines with one of our Countryside Rangers and join Stocktons Museum Service for craft activities.
Meet: At the main gate of Preston Park
Tuesday, 28th October
3.00pm - 5.00pm
Animal Masks, Fur and Feathers
Meet the parks smallest residents- our small mammals and birds of prey and then make an animal mask to take home.
Advanced booking essential Charge £2.
Friday, 31st October
6.30pm - 8.45pm
Halloween Fright Night
A spooky Halloween walk with ghosts and monsters around the museum & woodlands in Preston Park. Dare you follow our trail? (A family event) Admission is restricted to ticket holders.
Tickets are available at £4 a head (under 5s free) on 01642527345. Park & Ride buses will be provided to and from the event from Stockton Centre and from Yarm. Preferences need to be stated when buying your ticket. Vehicles will not be permitted in or near the Park.
Sunday, 16th November
10.00 - 12.30pm
Medieval Life at Newsham
Come and learn about life in this medieval village and the plights of the Lords who owned it. Look for the remains of buildings and village features.
Advanced booking essential
Saturday, 13th December
Noon - 4.00pm
Victorian Christmas
A day of crafts, stories and fun at Preston Hall Museum. Visit the Ranger stand to buy bird feed & bird feeders or to make treats for the winter birds in your gardens at home.
Meet: At Preston Hall Museum
Sunday, 4th January
10.00am - Noon
The Egglescliffe Circular Walk
Join a Countryside Ranger for a 3¼ mile walk along the river and through Egglescliffes attractive countryside.
Meet: Outside the Blue Bell pub by Yarm bridge
Friday, 20th February
7.00pm - 8.30pm
Park in the Dark
Come to Preston Park for a dark night out. After meeting our Barn Owl youll be led on a walk around the Park with a Countryside Ranger to explore why we are scared of the dark, (when other animals arent); the effect of the moon on how we feel and wildlife winter survival tactics.
All ages and abilities welcome.
Meet: At the main gates of Preston Park
Sunday, 22nd February
9.00am - 12.30pm
The Tees Wetland Walk
A ranger led 6 mile stroll through wetland & woodland Nature Reserves on both sides of the river.
Meet: Outside Preston Hall Museum
Sunday, 29th March
10.00am - Noon
Food for Free at Bassleton Wood
As food prices rocket and as Jamie Oliver and others tell us to eat healthily with fresh produce, now is the perfect time to find out that you dont need to pay for the best vegetables - they're all around you.
Meet: In the cul-de-sac on Bassleton lane, off Bader Avenue, Thornaby
Billingham Beck Valley Country Park
Sunday, 5th October
1.00pm - 3.00pm
Fungi Foray
Join the ranger at the Ecology Park for an enlightening afternoon into the world of fungi and mushrooms that are traditionally found at this time of year.
Meet: At the Ecology Park Visitor Centre
Monday, 27th October
1.30pm - 3.30pm
Flour Trail
Join the Ranger for a fun nature trail at Billingham Beck Valley.
Meet: At the Ecology Park Visitor Centre.
Childrens event.
Sunday, 2nd November
10.00am - Noon and 1.00pm - 3.00pm
Conservation Task Day 1
Join the Countryside Rangers and the regular volunteers for a session of hedgelaying and planting. There will also be a chance to try your hand at traditional techniques such as coppicing as well, as a section of old hedge is being restored.
Meet: At the Ecology Park Visitor Centre
Sunday, 21st December
1.30pm - 3.30pm
Creative Christmas
Bring your imagination to our festive arts and crafts session and make your own cards and decorations.
Advanced Booking Essential
Monday, 29th December
11.00am - 1.00pm
Festive Health Walk
Come along for a breath of fresh air and get some exercise to work off the calories on a winters walk around Billingham Beck. Discover what the local wildlife has been doing while you have been busy opening your presents!
Meet: At the entrance to Billingham Forum
Sunday, 18th January
10.00am - Noon and 1.00pm - 3.00pm
Conservation Task Day 2
Another chance to join the Countryside Rangers and the regular volunteer for a session of hedge-laying and planting. There will also be a chance to try your hand at traditional techniques such as coppicing as well, as section of old hedge is being restored.
Meet: At the Ecology Park Visitor Centre
Friday, 20th February
1.00pm - 3.00pm
Homes for Feathered Friends!
Our feathered friends will soon be returning our country after spending the winter in warmer countries and will be looking for places to nest. Help them out by coming along and making a nest box for the birds.
Advanced Booking Essential
Sunday, 15th March
11.00pm - 3.30pm
Pond to Pond Walk
Join the Countryside Ranger on this 8 mile circular walk Norton to Wolviston Village Ponds. Come prepared with suitable footwear and waterproof, and a packed lunch.
Meet: At the Duck Pond, Norton Village
Sunday, 29th March
3.00pm - 4.00pm
Life at 'The Beck'
Come along to our annual talk about what goes on here at Billingham Beck. The Countryside Ranger will be presenting an enlightening slide show about the work, wildlife and whats new at the site. Afterwards there will be a chance to talk to the staff about the management of the site.
Meet: At the Ecology Park Visitor Centre
Sunday, 19th October
1.00pm - 3.00pm
Can't see the Woods for the Trees!
A practical session. Come along to the Woodland Park and help restore the natural equilibrium by removing some of the non-native trees planted on site as nursery trees. This opens up new areas, letting the native species flourish and grow tall. Come dressed for the weather and the work!
Meet: At the Activity Centre
Friday, 31st October
1.00pm - 3.00pm
Barley the Barn Owl
Join an animal keeper from Preston Park and meet Barley the barn owl, and his friend the kestrel. Followed by an owl themed craft session.
Advanced booking essential.
Children's event
Suitable for pushchairs
Accessible for all
Sunday, 16th November
2.00pm - 4.00pm
Vagabonds of the Solar System!
Call into the Activity Centre to hear a talk about tonights Leonid meteor shower. The talk will also include asteroids, comets and all the excitement of near misses and actual previous collisions with the Earth. On the same evening at Wynyard Woodland Park Planetarium there will be an observing session organised by Society astronomers and their big telescopes - free of charge.
Meet: At the Activity Centre
Children's event
Suitable for pushchairs
Accessible for all
Sunday, 30th November
10.30pm - Noon
Festive Christmas Cards
Make that special person a Christmas card to cherish. Come along to the Woodland Parks Activity Centre and use your skills to create a Christmas masterpiece. Materials are supplied free.
Advanced Booking Essential
Children's event
Suitable for pushchairs
Accessible for all
Sunday, 14th December
2.00pm - 3.00pm
A Song for Christmas
The Woodland Park will be hosting South Bank Brass Band in the Christmas period. Stretch your lungs as you sing along to the brass band's rendition of old and new favourite Christmas Carols. Mince pies and hot beverages will be available free of charge.
Meet: At the Activity Centre
Children's event
Suitable for pushchairs
Accessible for all
Sunday, 25th January
1.00pm - 3.00pm
Great Green Gym
Come along to the Woodland Parks great outdoors Green Gym for a workout. Help us remove some of the non-native tree species from around the Woodland Park and get fit at the same time. Come dressed for the weather and the work.
Meet: At the Activity Centre
Wednesday, 18th February
10.30am - Noon
Busy Birdies!
During this time of often-cold weather come along to the Activity Centre and create a home for our winged friends. Build your own bird box to either leave at the Park to be put up by the Rangers. Or take it home to encourage our feathered friends to visit your garden.
Advanced Booking Essential. Charge £2
Children's event
Suitable for pushchairs
Accessible for all
Sunday, 22nd March
10.00am - 11.30am
Springtime Stroll around the Park
A short walk in the Park looking for evidence of its annual reawakening. To be followed by a free cup of tea with the Rangers, and a chat about work that has been carried out within the Park over the winter months. Wear appropriate clothing.
Meet: At the Activity Centre