Darlington's Parks and Green Spaces
Darlington is has more green spaces and parks than any other urban area in the North East of England. Our 16 parks and 10 nature reserves stretch right across the town.
Each one offers a uniquely different experience. There’s the Victorian splendour of South Park which is the oldest park in the region. West Park is the town’s newest green space; the site of an old chemical works with a bike track and play area.
Green Spaces Information Leaflet [pdf document 1mb] and Green Spaces Map [pdf document, 793kb]
West Park
West Park is a 12 hectare modern sculpture park; a large, diverse and interesting place with hills, sculptures, woodlands and play areas.
This unique family friendly park with huge sculptures and bridges offers fresh air and a chance to let off steam, with gently climbing slopes to get great views of the surrounding countryside.
West Park website [external link]
Cockerbeck
Cockerbeck is a parkland area that is beginning to recapture some of its wild heritage. Visitors are able to enjoy a pleasant bike ride along the winding cycleway, enjoy the timber play area or look for butterflies in the wildflower meadows.
The Denes
The Denes is a linear park that winds its way gently alongside the Cockerbeck right into the heart of the town to the River Skerne for over 1.5km. It is made up of seven diverse areas, from wildlife, to formal play, bowling to walking the dog, so its no surprise that this area has proved so popular with both local people and wildlife.
More information about the Denes
North Park
This large green space away from the centre of town provides the ideal location for a brisk walk or early morning stroll. Together with its bandstand, multi-use games area and picnic tables, Norht Park is ideal for a family day out.
North Lodge Park
This Edwardian park is located near to the centre of town, and provides a place to enjoy some peace and solitude. Anyone with an interest in their local history will enjoy the varied mixture of trees left over from the Pease's garden, the North Lodge Villa built in 1832, or the bandstand which shows poetry from local residents.
Rockwell LNR
Rockwell connects the heart of the town with the countryside along a restored section of the River Skerne and provides a vital and relaxing place for people and wildlife.
Eastbourne Park
Located in the south east of the town this large green space is on the doorstep of many local residents.
South Park
Darlington's premier park continues to provide a high quality experience for everyone. From award winning flower beds, to a lake, bandstand and fountains, South Park gives many examples of what is possible for a modern park.
More information about South Park
What’s your favourite park?
We want local people to have their say about our parks and how they could be improved.
The GreenSTAT visitor survey system is designed to provide a national measurement system for all parks and green spaces; examining who visits and why, as well as finding out what they think.
Rate Your Park [external link] today!