Rising Sun Country Park & 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.