Roker Park Sunderland

Roker Park, Sunderland

However, Roker Park attracted very little attention until the late 19th Century. Indeed, the earliest development was the building of Roker Terrace along the sea front on the cliff tops. This was in the 1840’s and those buildings are still standing. Roker still did not have the classification as a holiday resort until 1880. This was following the opening of Roker Park.

The land for the park was indeed a donation by Sir Hedworth Williamson and the Church Commissioners. Of course, this was for the development based upon the Roker Ravine in 1880. However, there was a condition to the donation and that was the ‘Commission’ build a bridge to span the ravine. This was so that Sir Hedworth Williamson’s land to the North of the area could be open for development.

The park still retains its Victorian style through to the present day. Moreover, it provides visitors with an array of interesting features and attractions. These include, Victorian Street Lamps, Display Gardens, Floral Displays, Children’s Play Parks and Model Railways etc. Obviously, a programme of events and entertainments are operate during the summer season. But, much happens during the autumn too. In particular, the Sunderland Illuminations which focus on the park itself.

Roker Park Lake

Obviously there are many seats around the lake. Indeed, in the early days, the King gave a presentation of four white swans especially for the Roker Park lake. But nowadays, swans rarely visit the lake. Of course, many seabirds and mallards are permanently resident.

Drinking Fountain

Model Railway

Nowadays, the narrow gauge rail track, in the north-west corner of the park is still in use. Indeed, the 1970’s construction is often open to the public to ride on certain days.

Roker Park Bandstand

Particularly popular were the performances on the bandstand and the peirrot show. Obviously, both attracted large audiences. In fact, the bandstand area still attracts a large number of people when events take place there.

Roker Ravine

Then, winding from the beach between limestone cliffs is a wide footpath. Of course, this leads to the recreational grounds of Roker Park. Indeed, the path is a deep ravine that takes visitors towards the centre of the park. Passing over the ravine is a wooden footbridge which is accessible by climbing the steps close by.

Spottee’s Hole

However, the name “Spottee” comes from a poor foreign sailor who was unable to speak English. But, he managed to pick up a precarious living in the neighbourhood. It was his multi-coloured spotty garments got him the name. Because he could not converse with the locals, many thought he was a lunatic. Indeed, The Bishoprick Garland refers to Spottee as such.

Furthermore, a long time ago, many people believe that three local people explored the cave for some considerable distance. However, when the cave came under examination in 1870, there was no trace of the passage. But some still believe the passage exists and that it was an escape route from St Peters Church in Monkwearmouth.

Floral Displays

Of course, as usual with recreational parks, there is an abundance of floral displays. There are many ancient trees and the park has many kinds of shrubs. Together with various wildlife including squirrels, wildfowl and other birds, Roker park is ideal for a stroll. In fact, the recreational park is very large and is often in use for this type of activity by many people.

Other Features

Some of the other features of Roker Park include bowling greens and tennis courts, of course. Indeed, there is even some basketball courts too. Then there are the children’s play areas off Side Cliff Road. So, many parents park here to allow their kids to play on the apparatus and sand features.

Roker Park Illuminations

Generally speaking, as part of the annual Sunderland Illuminations, Roker Park became a central hub. Although the attractions extend along into Seaburn, Roker Park is the focal point. Due to its sheer size and flexibility, the recreational park has a new lease of life during this period. As well as the usual lights, there is also lights with various themes. Obviously, the most popular being Alice in Wonderland. So, when you visit Sunderland Illuminations, ensure that Roker Park is on the agenda.

Your Memories

What are your memories of Roker Park in Sunderland? Let us know in the comments section below. Alternatively you could use our massive Sunderland Message Boards (SMB). The Sunderland Forum is a great place to socially interact with other Wearsiders, so pop over and create a post.

SD14 on the Boating Lake

Finally, since Sunderland was the biggest town in the world, here we have a suitable video. This is of an SD14 ship on the recreational lake in the park.

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