Rainton Meadows

In 1996, the city of Sunderland and Durham Wildlife Trust collaborated to create seventy-five hectares worth of protected land for wildlife. This land was called Rainton Meadows, and is a restoration of what used to be the Rye Hill open cast coal mine.

The nature reserve has three nature trails; Heron, Shrew, and Dragonfly. There are interactive rubbing posts along with a playground. Furthermore, this park boasts bird watching huts and a range of wildlife to try and spot, ranging from the many species of owl to the stoats roaming the grasslands. There is also a classroom and a cafe.

At the cafe, there is a range of ice creams available along with other food and drink. In addition, the café is decorated in greens, blues, and browns. The tables and chairs are plastic. Durham Wildlife Trust has many campaigns and volunteering roles one can take up. However, you do not need to be a member of Durham Wildlife Trust to visit.

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Accessibility at Rainton Meadows

There is disabled parking nearby. In addition, the terrain of the wildlife park is mixed as there are various pathways that are level but with some slopes here and there.

The entrances to the café and bird watching huts are level. Furthermore, there is an accessible toilet at the café. Whilst the staff have not been trained to work with those who are neurodivergent, they are able to help to the best of their ability.

Not to mention, there are no braille or large print menus. Despite this, the staff are able to tell you what is available to you. Unfortunately, there are no braille or large print maps available.

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