We’ve put together a guide to Sunderland’s parks and the stories behind them, from the smallest pocket park to a landmark park which was created in response to the Cholera epidemic.
5. Burn Park, Thornhill
Possibly Sunderland's smallest park, Burn Park only takes minutes to walk around but it's got a quaint charm with original cobbled paths and a foot bridge. It was once a larger park with its own games huts and a north side, which was demolished in 1971 to make way for the New Durham Road dual carriageway. Worth popping to nearby Grinder or Paticake Patisserie for a takeaway coffee and cake if you're out and about. Photo: JPI Media
6. Herrington Country Park
Once the site of Herrington Colliery, Herrington Country Park is a prime example of how former industrial land can be given new life. The park has developed into a significant home for wildlife, hosting up to 100 species of birds. It's also hosted many major events for the city, such as Radio 1's Big Weekend. Photo: JPI Media
7. Cliffe Park, Seaburn
Well used for coastal walks, Cliffe Park's most distinguishing feature is its Grade II-listed lighthouse. The structure was originally built in 1856 on Sunderland's South Pier. In 1983 it was dismantled to allow for harbour improvements and moved to the park. Photo: Stu Norton
8. Roker Park
Another of the city's oldest parks, Roker Park was opened on June 23, 1880, on land donated by Sir Hedworth Williamson, 8th Baronet and the Church Commissioners. The park has plenty of features including a remote-controlled model boating lake, model railway, which was built in the 1970s, as well as two bowling greens, play park and sports courts. Photo: Stu Norton