Rising Sun Country Park
Landscape In Benton, Tyne And Wear
162 hectare park with ponds, walkways and bird hides.
Rising Sun Country Park is a hidden gem in Benton, spanning an impressive 400 acres. Once a bustling coal mining area, the park has undergone a huge transformation. The colliery at Rising Sun was sunk in 1906 and was in use until 1969 and there are plenty of information boards in the park telling you more about the history of the area.
Today, it boasts a number of habitats, including tranquil woodlands, lakes, lush meadows, and vibrant wetlands. This diversity attracts a wide variety of wildlife, transforming the park into a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Animals you might spot include rabbits scampering around, foxes at dusk, and plenty of birds to twitch. On our visit in April 2024, we spotted Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler bringing a lovely spring-time feel to the park.
There is a network of well-maintained footpaths for walkers and cyclists to explore the vast park, which are well marked. You can stroll around the lake, walk through the woodlands or wander along bridleways, being mindful of the horses you might encounter.
You could easily spend a few hours here and the park is great for families. There is a children's playground, water play area, farmyard animals and a cafe for teas and wees. Worth noting that the car park closes before 7pm though, so don't get locked in!
This is a fab spot to stretch your legs and get some fresh air any time of the year.
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How To Find Rising Sun Country Park
Where Is Rising Sun Country Park?
Lat / Long
55.019526, -1.52871
What three words
Where To Park For Rising Sun Country Park?
Lat / Long
55.021817, 55.021817
What three words
There is a free car park at the entrance, however this closes in the afternoon, so we parked at the nearby Asda so we didn't get locked in.
Contributed by Sandra Clemens
I love the great outdoors and have been a National Trust & English Heritage member for years. I also love going off the beaten track and finding places like Sharp's Folly or Rothley Castle which are hidden gems in Northumberland. My favourite recent hike was climbing Red Screes in the Lake District on a whim, not fully grasping how high 776m was. It was still an achievement to conquer a Wainwright walk and I hope to do more one day.
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Join Our Facebook GroupRising Sun Country Park was listed in Landscape // Tyne And Wear // Benton