Elba Park is an award-winning, 52-hectare greenspace on the outskirts of Sunderland, transformed from an industrial coal mining site into a thriving park. Named after a lost hamlet, the area was heavily mined from the 1600s until the mid-1980s.
Over a decade, the site was reclaimed through the National Coalfields Programme, moving nearly two million cubic metres of soil, planting 77,000 trees, and creating 3,700 metres of multi-user trails. Public artworks honour the area’s mining heritage, while diverse habitats support local wildlife.
Today, Elba Park provides open space for nearby residents, a sanctuary for nature, and a vibrant community resource, enriched by active volunteers and a dedicated Friends group.
Open access
Limited parking for 10 cars
Extensive network of footpaths. Most are more than 1.5 metres wide, but narrower trails through wooded areas. Limited number of seating areas at varied intervals throughout the woodland. Access onto site is through access control barriers which permit motorised buggies. Two parking bays for people with disabilities.
Maintained footpaths
Well-controlled dogs welcome
Fencehouses,
Sunderland,
Tyne & Wear,
DH4 6GB
Groundwork North East and Cumbria
Andrea Baxter | Senior Community Ranger
Email: andrea.baxter@groundwork.org.uk.
Telephone: 0191 567 2550
