Elba Park

In a previous life, Elba Park was in the heart of a coal mining area. There had been mining here since the 1600s, as coal seams ran close to the surface and were therefore easier to mine. Industrial activity continued here until the closure of Lambton Cokeworks in the mid 1980s.

The park's transformation began in the late 1990s, when a staggering 77,000 trees were planted and 3,700 metres of footpaths were created. The result is a very inviting and open country park where you could spend an hour or so getting your steps in after a Sunday lunch. The site has woodlands, wetlands and meadows and apparently attracts Kingfishers and Green Woodpeckers, though we are yet to see them.

You'll also find the work of Blacksmith Craig Knowles dotted around the park, which include his sculptures, 'The Lambton Worm', 'The Work Bridge' and 'Gala Days'. All spectacular.

The Lambton Worm references the song about the huge worm that wrapped itself around Penshaw Monument, which can be seen from the highest point in the park.

The Work Bridge consists of over 100 hand forged pickaxe heads. Back in the day, miners had to pay for their own pick and wages were deducted if picks needed sharpening.

Gala Days is a series of four sculptures which are modelled on the banners that adorn the streets on Gala Day to celebrate Durham's mining history.