Barnes Park Sunderland

 We visited the lovely Barnes park in Sunderland this weekend and wanted to share just how special it is with you.

The park has everything you could want for a relaxed morning or afternoon out. There are two very impressive, spacious, well equipped play areas one for younger kids and one for older ones.

There is a very attractive pond teaming with ducks and a bridges to cross over. The park is ideal for a stroll or bike/scooter ride with lots of paths to wind your way around and quirky sculptures to grab your attention.

There are very well maintained toilet facilities, a free car park, a m.u.g.a, picnic tables and lots of open areas too.

Wharton Park and Durham

 Hi Everyone,

We recently visited Wharton Park in Durham which is located next to the railway station. The park is set in  beautiful surroundings and has spectacular views of Durham cathedral.

The park is split into various sections, at the entrance their is a visitor centre with toilet facilities and a cafe offering takeaway food options. There are lots of picnic tables and benches dotted around to enjoy any goodies you purchase or just to admire the view. 

Next to this is a younger children's play area with lots of different equipment with a train theme. Directly opposite is an obstacle course with a well equipped outdoor gym aimed at ages 14+. This area has a particular lovely view of the catherderal and is ideal for a photo opportunity. You can also see the trains coming into the station so perfect for any train spotters.

Further into the park there is a basketball court and older kids play area. This is again well equppied and has a particularly cool slide with various obstacles to climb to reach the summit.

The play area leads onto a beautiful community garden filled with blooms. It's a lovely little area with lots of butterflies fluttering around.

Back towards the top of the park is the old battery which again boosts lovely views and the kids loved the castle feel to it.

You can find lots of sculptures around the park and information boards giving lots of interesting info about the park and what's in it. We really enjoyed reading them as we walked around.

The park has lots of events and even has a mini car track and putting green. Check their website for when activities are back up and running.

http://www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark

After visiting the park we took a short walk into Durham and visited Bell's fish and chip shop in the market square. We always like to mention Bell's as not only do they make amazing food but they are also coeliac friendly so it's always ago to for us. They are taking part in the government's 50% eat out to help out deal so a perfect time to try them if you haven't before.

https://m.facebook.com/bellsfishandchips/