Rising Sun Country Park & Countryside Centre
A vast green oasis in North Tyneside blending rich wildlife habitats, historic roots, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Rising Sun Country Park is a sprawling 162-hectare green oasis in North Tyneside, offering diverse habitats including woodlands, ponds, wetlands, and grasslands. The park features extensive footpaths, bridleways, and cycle routes, with wheelchair-accessible trails, bird hides, a café with terrace views, a children’s play area, and a farm. It is a haven for wildlife and a perfect spot for outdoor activities, education, and relaxation, with free admission and ample facilities.
A brief summary to The Rising Sun Countryside Centre
- Whitley Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, Benton, NE12 9SS, GB
- +441916432241
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Countryside Centre café for refreshments and enjoy the terrace views over the park.
- Explore the accessible footpaths and bridleways suitable for wheelchairs and families.
- Check the events calendar for guided walks, Nordic walking groups, and seasonal activities.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated picnic and barbecue areas surrounded by nature.
- Visit the bird hides at Swallow Pond for excellent birdwatching opportunities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metro to Palmersville station, then enjoy a 10 to 15-minute walk along well-marked paths to the Countryside Centre. Alternatively, buses to Benton Asda stop nearby, with a short walk of about 10 minutes to the park entrance. Public transport is frequent but check schedules for weekends and holidays.
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Car
Drive to the Countryside Centre where free parking is available, including accessible spaces. Parking is also available at the nearby Benton ASDA car park. Note that parking can be busy during weekends and events. No parking fees apply.
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Cycling
The park features extensive cycleways and bridleways suitable for cyclists of all levels. Cycle parking is available at the Countryside Centre. The terrain is mostly level, making it a pleasant ride through natural surroundings.
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Walking
For local visitors, walking routes connect the park with surrounding neighborhoods. Terrain is mostly level with some accessible paths, suitable for families and wheelchair users. Walking times vary depending on starting point but expect 20 to 40 minutes from nearby residential areas.
The Rising Sun Countryside Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Rising Sun Countryside Centre
A Landscape Transformed: From Colliery to Countryside Haven
Rising Sun Country Park occupies 162 hectares (400 acres) of reclaimed land in Benton, North Tyneside. Once the site of the Rising Sun Colliery, which operated from 1906 to 1969, the area underwent extensive land reclamation starting in 1971. The park’s terrain includes former pit heaps, now among the highest points in Tyneside, and Swallow Pond, a local nature reserve formed by the collapse of underground mine workings in 1953. Over 60,000 trees have been planted, creating a mosaic of woodland, grassland, ponds, and wetlands that supports rich biodiversity. The park’s history is woven into its landscape, blending industrial heritage with natural regeneration.Wildlife and Natural Features
The park is a designated Local Nature Reserve, with habitats that include woodlands, wildflower meadows, wetlands, and a large lake. Bird hides overlook Swallow Pond, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The diverse ecosystems support deer, horses, butterflies, and a variety of bird species, making it a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s extensive network of footpaths, bridleways, and cycleways allows visitors to explore these environments at leisure, with selected routes accessible to wheelchair users.Facilities and Visitor Experience
At the heart of the park lies the Countryside Centre, housed in the former Scaffold Hill Hospital building, which opened as a centre in 1987. It offers an exhibition room, educational facilities, and a café with outdoor terrace seating overlooking the park. Amenities include toilets, a Changing Places facility, picnic and barbecue areas, and a children’s play area with a water play feature. The park hosts regular events, cycling and Nordic walking groups, and volunteer opportunities. Rising Sun Farm, a charity-run organic farm within the park, maintains livestock such as pigs, poultry, and sheep, and provides educational and recreational programs.Recreation and Accessibility
Rising Sun Country Park caters to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, with an extensive and mostly level terrain suitable for all ages and abilities. The park is open year-round, with the wider park accessible at all times and the Countryside Centre operating from early morning to late afternoon. Free parking is available, including accessible spaces, and the park is reachable via public transport, with Palmersville Metro station nearby and bus stops at Benton Asda within walking distance. The park’s Green Flag award recognizes its high standards of maintenance and visitor facilities.Community and Conservation
The park actively promotes healthy living and sustainability, encouraging outdoor activities and environmental stewardship. It serves as a community hub for education, volunteering, and nature appreciation. The Friends of Rising Sun group supports conservation efforts and organizes events. The organic farm and countryside centre provide resources for learning and engagement with the natural world, fostering a strong connection between people and place.Events and Seasonal Highlights
Throughout the year, Rising Sun Country Park hosts a variety of events and activities, including the weekly Rising Sun Parkrun every Saturday. Seasonal changes bring vibrant displays of wildflowers, migrating birds, and changing foliage, enhancing the park’s scenic beauty. The café offers locally sourced refreshments, making it a welcoming spot to relax after exploring. The park’s combination of natural beauty, heritage, and community spirit creates a unique destination for visitors seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Salisbury House
3.4 km
Historic Salisbury House in Wallsend stands on ancient Roman fort grounds, bridging centuries of military and industrial heritage.
Jesmond Dene Mill
5.1 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
King John's Palace
5.2 km
Explore the fortified ruins of a 13th-century manor house in Newcastle’s Heaton Park, steeped in medieval history and royal intrigue.
Saint Mary's Well
5.3 km
Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
6.3 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
6.6 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
Little Buildings
6.6 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
William Coulson Monument
6.6 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Collingwood Monument
7.0 km
A commanding tribute to Admiral Collingwood overlooking the River Tyne, celebrating a naval hero’s legacy at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
7.0 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
Blacksmiths Needle
7.0 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Claremont Tower
7.0 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
7.0 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
1914 Monument
7.0 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
Old Library Building
7.1 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Segedunum Roman Fort & Museum
3.5 km
Explore Segedunum, the eastern gateway to Hadrian's Wall, with interactive exhibits, ancient ruins, and panoramic views over Tyneside.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
3.8 km
Follow the footsteps of Roman legions along the historic Hadrian’s Wall Path from Wallsend’s ancient fort to the wild northern English countryside.
Paddy Freeman's Park
4.9 km
A peaceful urban retreat in Newcastle with scenic trails, a boating lake, sports facilities, and a welcoming café for all ages.
Jesmond Dene
5.0 km
A serene Victorian woodland park in Newcastle, rich with history, wildlife, and scenic riverside trails.
Jesmond Dene Quarry
5.0 km
Discover the peaceful Jesmond Dene Quarry, a historic sandstone site transformed into a scenic garden oasis within Newcastle’s ancient woodland valley.
Jesmond Dene Falls
5.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Jesmond Dene Falls, a tranquil woodland oasis in the heart of Newcastle.
Armstrong Park
5.2 km
Historic woodland park in Newcastle with sports facilities, scenic walks, and Victorian-era charm for all ages.
Ouse burn stepping stones
5.2 km
Historic stepping stones crossing a tranquil woodland stream in Jesmond Vale, blending natural beauty with Newcastle’s rich heritage.
Adam of Jesmond's House
5.2 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Adam of Jesmond's House, a 13th-century fortified manor nestled in Newcastle's Heaton Park.
St Mary's Chapel
5.3 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St Mary's Chapel, a medieval pilgrimage site with a sacred healing well nestled in tranquil Jesmond Dene.
Whitley Bay
5.8 km
Whitley Bay offers golden beaches, iconic landmarks, and a vibrant seaside atmosphere just a short trip from Newcastle.
The Lonsdale
5.9 km
A two‑level West Jesmond pub serving classic pub food, wide beers and lively sport‑watching with pool and darts upstairs.
Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd
6.3 km
A vibrant urban farm and charity in Newcastle offering free access to animals, gardens, and sustainable community experiences.
Seven Stories
6.4 km
Discover the magic of children's books at Seven Stories, Newcastle’s vibrant national centre for storytelling, exhibitions, and family fun.
The Biscuit Factory
6.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s largest independent contemporary art gallery set in a historic warehouse, blending creativity, culture, and community.
Essential places to dine
Peace & Loaf restaurant
5.6 km
Innovative modern British cuisine with nostalgic flavors and exceptional service in Jesmond’s stylish, relaxed setting.
Lovage Jesmond
5.6 km
Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.
Sohe Restaurant
5.6 km
Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.
Jam Jar
5.7 km
Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.
Fat Hippo Jesmond
5.8 km
Original Fat Hippo in Jesmond serves bold, messy burgers and dirty fries in a lively, inclusive atmosphere with vegan and gluten-free options.
Florence Jesmond
6.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.
Branches Restaurant
6.0 km
Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.
Dosa Kitchen
6.1 km
Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.
Fratello's
6.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Cook House
6.4 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
As You Like It
6.5 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Gusto Italian
7.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Victors Newcastle
7.1 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
7.1 km
Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
7.2 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Marks and Spencer
2.4 km
A modern, versatile Marks and Spencer store offering quality fashion, food, and homeware in Wallsend’s Silverlink Shopping Park.
The Curiosity Box
5.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at The Curiosity Box in Newcastle’s vibrant Chillingham Road district.
The Beacon Centre
5.4 km
Discover The Beacon Centre in North Shields—your go-to shopping destination for diverse retail experiences and delightful cafes.
Behålla Store
5.6 km
Curated vintage fashion in the heart of Whitley Bay's independent shopping district.
Bellwoods Lifestyle Store
5.6 km
A warm, independent gift shop in Whitley Bay’s Park View Shopping Centre, offering curated homewares, books, stationery and lifestyle finds with a coastal charm.
St Oswald's Hospice Charity Shop - Jesmond
5.6 km
Discover designer bargains and unique treasures at Jesmond's Boutique by St Oswald's Hospice, where every purchase powers compassionate care in the North East.
Antiquites Francaises
5.7 km
Discover restored French antiques in Jesmond: elegant 19th-century furniture sourced and polished since 1997 for your timeless home.
Fern Avenue Antiques Centre
5.7 km
Uncover hidden gems and timeless tales in Jesmond's premier family-run antiques haven, where every aisle brims with history and surprise.
Watchtraderuk Limited
5.7 km
Shop unique fashion accessories at Watchtraderuk Limited in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, where style meets local charm.
Jules B Ladieswear
5.7 km
A curated Jesmond boutique for designer womenswear with attentive personal service and seasonal collections in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Zen Wardrobe
5.7 km
Discover serene style at Zen Wardrobe, Jesmond's haven for minimalist women's fashion on lively Osborne Road.
Second Skin
5.7 km
Luxurious leather and sheepskin coats that fit like a second skin, in the heart of Jesmond's stylish enclave.
Gourmet Gifts
5.7 km
Discover unique gourmet treats and expert gift wrapping supplies in the cozy charm of Jesmond’s Gourmet Gifts shop.
Meander Gifts
5.8 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures at Meander Gifts, Whitley Bay’s charming boutique rooted in heritage and creativity.
For the Love of the North
6.1 km
Discover Northern England’s spirit through locally crafted gifts and unique souvenirs at Whitley Bay’s charming boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Left Luggage Room
5.2 km
Cozy micro-pub inside Monkseaton Metro Station offering rustic charm, quality craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere in Whitley Bay.
The Two Pennies
5.3 km
Quirky and welcoming bar in North Shields with great beers, lively events, and a friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Fox & Finch
5.6 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant in Whitley Bay offering hearty meals, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere with a modern industrial charm.
97 & Social
5.7 km
Lively Jesmond gastro bar with innovative cocktails, comfort food, and fireside charm on buzzing Osborne Road – perfect for brunches, dates, or casual nights out.
Spy
5.7 km
Catch the action at Spy Bar Jesmond—big screens, juicy burgers, premium pints, and unbeatable sports vibes on lively Osborne Road.
Phoenix Bar Jesmond
5.7 km
Refurbished Jesmond gem with grilled British fare, creative cocktails, sports screens, pool tables, and a heated outdoor forecourt—perfect for casual hangs or lively nights.
The Punch Bowl
5.8 km
Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.
Willow Bay cocktail bar
5.8 km
Cozy and vibrant cocktail bar with eclectic décor, local craft ales, and a lively community spirit in the heart of Whitley Bay.
Soho Jesmond
5.8 km
Jesmond's sprawling modern bar hub: live sports, cheap student drinks, quizzes, buskers, and outdoor sheisha vibes draw lively crowds to this Osborne Road powerhouse.
Bar Blanc
5.8 km
Jesmond's go-to bar for cheap pints, pub grub, sports screens, and happy hours in a lively Osborne Road setting.
The Juke Shed
6.1 km
A vibrant Fish Quay bar renowned for live local music, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Tynemouth.
Low Lights Tavern
6.1 km
A cozy and lively pub in Tynemouth offering warm hospitality, quality drinks, and hearty meals in a charming coastal setting.
The Collingwood Arms under new management
6.4 km
A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Billy Bootleggers
6.4 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
Holy Hobo
6.5 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
7.3 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Greys Club
7.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
7.6 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
7.6 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Popworld - Newcastle
7.6 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
7.7 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
7.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Tup Tup Palace
7.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
7.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
7.7 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Sinners
7.7 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
The Social Club
7.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Cosmic Ballroom
7.8 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Digital
8.3 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
8.3 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly