Do you remember PARKWATCH? Well, during the last two summers we have visited and reviewed a number of parks in the Middlesbrough, Stockton area. We had meant to include Saltholme but never got round to actually doing a review. Well, today we managed to get ourselves together and not only visit this superb “wildlife reserve and discovery park” but also do a write up of being there. Now there were a couple of things that gave us the kick up the backside we needed. Firstly, it’s half-term, and the girls are driving me mental so a trip to anywhere is needed. Secondly Rac (my beautiful wife, well I’m married to her so the second bit’s true) had entered the girls into a “welly photo thingy” competition and we’d won!!!! So we had to go and collect our prize. Two birds with one stone, excuse the pun as it may offend the more sensitive types at the RSPB.
Anyway, Saltholme is brilliant. A great day out for adults, children, anyone. Yes, it’s great for those serious types with expensive binoculars and cameras who know the difference between a red wagtailed Tern and a red setter. But it’s also great for those who just want to go and see some birds, get some fresh air and let their kids exoplore the many delights that nature has to offer.
It’s only about 10 minutes from Middlesbrough. Just off the A19 in Port Clarence. It’s deep in the heart of the industrialised area of Teesside. An oasis amongst the chimneys, factories and over head cables. As we enter it reminds me of the final scene in “Seven”. Great film, great scene. Not quite the place you’d want to visit. But as you pass by the wires, steel and smoke you come across this lovely area re-captured from industry and given back to the birds. The main building is a stunning work of architectural beauty. The lakes and walks that surround could be anywhere. It’s only the iconic views of the Transporter and Temenos that remind you that you are deep in the wastelands of the industrial revolution.
The girls fished in the lakes, spotted the birds, walked the picturesque walks, played in the play area, marvelled at the wishing tree resplendant in wellies and picked up their bug house as welly wearing prize winners. Only £3 per car to enter. Or free if you walk, bike or go by public transport. Open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Friendly staff, educational signage, loads to make and do. A great day out for all the family. We highly recommend you pay them a visit.

LINKS:

SALTHOLME: http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/saltholme/

MORE PHOTOS ON FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/Saltholme?ref=ts&sk=wall#!/media/set/?set=a.10150335165301640.344035.153421781639&type=1

By peter on October 28, 2011