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1-Day Houghton-le-Spring Itinerary
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Houghton-le-Spring in 1 day
If you only have 1 day to spend in Houghton-le-Spring, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Houghton-le-Spring offers a glimpse into North East England’s mining and religious heritage, centered on its historic parish church of St Michael and All Angels and the long-running Houghton Feast festival. Nearby attractions include Herrington Country Park and Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, which provide walking trails, birdwatching and open green space. The town is also well placed for exploring the wider region, with easy access to Sunderland, Durham and the iconic Penshaw Monument.
With favorites like The Grey Horse, The Beehive Pub, and Elba Park, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like The Philadelphia and The Grey Horse so you can get the best taste of Houghton-le-Spring while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Houghton-le-Spring?
Visiting Houghton-le-Spring? See our Houghton-le-Spring Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
- Houghton-le-Spring in 1 day
- 1-day itinerary
Day 1
1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Herrington Country Park and Down At The Farm with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Houghton-le-Spring without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 7 hours of your day.
1
•Fiona C — Google reviewInta — Google reviewRichie V — Google reviewIan J — Google reviewMary G — Google reviewEddie A — Google reviewMatthew T — Google review
Herrington Country Park
4.7
(3456)
4.5
(681)
Country park
Nature & Parks
Parks
Herrington Country Park is a spacious and lively park that offers various activities for visitors. It features walking and bike trails, an amphitheater, playground, and sculptures. The park is located near Barnes Park and Seaburn beach, making it a great destination for scenic walks and outdoor fun. Additionally, the area boasts top-rated educational facilities such as schools and colleges. Throughout the year, the park hosts music events like the Kubix Festival while also providing ample public space for relaxation.
Great open space with something for everyone. Beautiful views and walks, kids play area, grassed seating amphitheatre and plenty of free parking.
Carole S — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. Fantastic for taking your dog round. Geese and swans roaming around freely, and very tame. Loads to see
Herrington Country Park is a compelling blend of nature, public art, family-friendly recreation, and heritage—set against an impressive backdrop of Penshaw Monument.
It’s a great spot for walking, wildlife watching, playing, or relaxing—though some caution is advised during busy events or if dogs are present.
Herrington Country Park is well-loved for good reason—thanks to its blend of history, beauty, art, and community vibrancy. Just be prepared, and it’s a day out that's hard to forget.
Nice big park with nice walks and lakes full of posh ducks, geese and regular common ducks. That aren't owned by the king. And odd big black birds that sat in the trees too far away to identify.
An amazing park with beautiful walks.
Ideal for all ages and wheelchairs and rollators.
We will definitely be back soon to enjoy some of the other walks around the park.
Great park..nice walks..loads of birds to see..dog qalkwrs a plenty..only downfall quite a plenty of lead..
Beautiful clean park located on the outskirts of Sunderland. Ideal for families.
Also at the park is a lovely restaurant with great food but beware there could be a queue to sit and eat inside.
The park itself is huge, the play park is near the top, half way along there is a skate park and an open top amphitheatre where I expect small shows can be put on, down the bottom is a sizable lake with ducks, geese and swans .
The whole place was clean and a pleasure to take kids and grandkids to.
I will definitely go there again.
Me and Star had a lovely evening walk at Herrington Country Park. We had a good walk around the lake, up to John's Rock past the Sun bench and up to the Site Lines, which from a distance looks like a mini stonhenge.
Chester Rd, Penshaw, Houghton le Spring DH4 7EL, United Kingdom•
6 min · 4.3 mi
2•Tracey M — Google reviewAndor S — Google reviewChris K — Google reviewDanielle C — Google reviewClaire S — Google reviewMargaret S — Google reviewAlan H — Google review
Down At The Farm
4.5
(820)
4.2
(273)
Temporarily Closed
Children's farm
Sights & Landmarks
Farm
Down At The Farm is a delightful family-run destination in Sunderland that offers an immersive experience with both domestic and exotic animals. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities like feeding and handling various creatures, from reptiles to reindeer. The farm features exciting outdoor adventures, including two play areas, jumping pillows, a sandpit, and thrilling rides on tractors and barrels. Kids will love the chance to be mini zookeepers for the day while enjoying fun attractions like quad biking and a racing car track.
Great for younger kids. Annual pass is very good value. Tractor and 1x barrel ride included per child per visit. Nice activities to do like feeding the lambs, petting the rabbits, brushing the donkeys etc. Ample play parks all around the farm enough to keep the children entertained all day. Swings, slides, tunnels, play frames and 2x bouncing pillows and a sand pit. Ride on tractors and go-kart type cars too. Face painting available and a cafe on site. Only had the ice cream (which is delicious and good value). Ample parking and clean on site with plenty of bins and hand washing stations dotted about. Cant wait until our next visit !
Jess H — Google review
Great place to visit with children. Lots of activities to do throughout the day from opening time until close. Nice little cafe for refreshments and food. Great seasonal events too, October/Halloween event was great for this year 2025
It's a really nice family friendly place. Nice clean and plenty to do with the little ones.
You can either just walk around or picnic and wait until the next programme is up.
A great trip! The animals seem very well cared for and the staff were helpful and engaged.
The kids love it, you can get up close to the animals and they love the feeding!
The included tractor ride and barrel ride are great fun, the play park is excellent and the cafe prices very fair
Had a great day and will be back to supper our community!
Our favourite place. We've been coming since 2023 and absolutely love it. My boy is nearly 4 now and he especially loves the maze and halloween. They also have gluten free options in the cafe which I think is great. We've made some amazing memories here and can't wait to keep bringing him as he grows up
A fun trip for younger kids for a morning or an afternoon. Best bit was the herd of red deer appearing over the hill to be fed. Worst bit was how dirty and stained the baby changing facilities were.
Really lovely little farm, well spaced out, plenty of parking spaces. Lots to keep children entertained. Food from cafe nice too.
Great day out with the kids. The maze was disappointing because of the weather this year. Would visit again
Burdon Lane, Houghton le Spring, DH5 8JG, United Kingdom•
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Where
When
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
7 min · 3 mi
3James M — Google review
SILLY BILLYS
5.0
(2)
Children's amusement center
What a great place! I wish I'd found it sooner. Lovely, friendly, cheerful staff. Café has lots of options for adults and kids, a range of snacks and larger meals. Loads of seating and most of it in full view of the children's play area. Includes small toddler soft play with climbing and soft slide. Fenced off baby area with cushioned flooring and lots of toys. Four or five role play houses with themes like space with a rocket, and play kitchen. Plenty of dressing-up clothes. Small building area with bricks and tools. The hall has a road in a large loop where kids can use the ride-on cars. There's even a small caravan for them to play pretend. So many toys all in good condition. Toilets were lovely and clean, used both the female and baby change toilet which had potty and child's toilet seat. We will definitely be back!
Naomi R — Google review
Silly Billys is an amazing children's play barn, loads of different shops, costumes to dress up and toys to play with
Houghton le Spring, DH4 4JW, United Kingdom•
4 min · 2.1 mi
4Janet W — Google reviewChrissy M — Google reviewChris S — Google reviewSusan E — Google reviewPhillip J — Google reviewKaren — Google reviewLynne B — Google review
Elba Park
4.4
(386)
Park
Elba Park in Houghton-le-Spring offers a delightful short stroll starting from the car park off Blind Lane. The path along Herrington Burn allows visitors to explore the parkland and enjoy family-friendly activities. The park features original artwork commemorating its industrial and mining heritage, including a large metal entrance banner depicting the legendary story of the Lambton Worm. Despite its industrial past, Elba Park now provides a peaceful retreat for dog walkers, cyclists, and families in Sunderland suburbs.
Great open space for walking and dog walking, interesting sculptures, great views and good paths , suitable for all , no restrooms, no playground , dog friendly , car park on opposite side of the road to the entrance
Ray H — Google review
Nice place to walk and no mud! Lots of dog walkers, cyclists and families enjoying the relative peace and quiet in the Sunderland suburbs. Little areas for kids such as the Faerie Den and Woodland Walk. Small lake with swans and ducks. Amazing this used to be so industrial - it is built on the old Collery and coke works site.
This place can be made so much more enjoyable walk round, but the lake has been left to rot, and it looks like they just give up on plans for the place
Great open space well kept & tidy, ideal for Dog walking & jogging with several convenient car parks at various entrances.
Lovely walk around with the dogs and people with. Could do with more dog bin or bins in general and seating area
I love Elba Park. My best friend lives in the new estate and its become a second home to me. Its history is rich and interesting. I'm thinking about moving to the area to live ftom N Wales another mining area.
Lovely quiet place for walks. A few different trails to follow and a little fairy garden for the children!
My dogs favourite walk and not bad for humans would recommend
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Where to eat
Under a 4-minute walk from SILLY BILLYS, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.
The Philadelphia
4.3
(201)
4.0
(5)
Pub
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, the Lambton Castle Hotel is a delightful spot that promises an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday or simply enjoying a family gathering, this venue shines with its attentive staff and warm atmosphere. Diners rave about the generous portions of homemade food, from succulent Sunday roasts to mouthwatering chips that are hard to resist. The commitment to quality and friendliness makes every visit special, ensuring guests leave with smiles on their faces and plans for a return trip.
Drinks outside on an evening, good choices of lager- Cruz Campo!!! Lovely staff, will definitely be back to try the food. So good this place is open again 🍻 cheers!
S H — Google review
Great service and the Sunday dinner was fantastic. Reasonably priced and one of the best places for Sunday dinners in this area.
Great atmosphere great food we have been twice since new manager have took over. Great meats both occasions served hot tasty by friendly staff. Strongly recommend The Philledelphia. Try it you won't be disappointed.
Absolutely delicious, main meal,(hunters chicken and chicken Kiev) and dessert.generous portions. Will be returning
Nice sunday dinner. Staff were pleasant and helpful.
Good food, good atmosphere.
Lovely friendly pub and staff
Just had a fabulous Sunday Lunch with all the trimmings - especially like the Onion Pud side!
Chicken was so juicy and tender and great choice of Veg! We will definitely be back again next time we are up visiting the North East!
Staff are so friendly, nothing is too much trouble!
Success Rd, Philadelphia, Houghton le Spring DH4 4JG, United Kingdom•
The Grey Horse
4.5
(271)
4.5
(305)
affordable
Pub
The Grey Horse is a charming restaurant in the United Kingdom that offers quality home-cooked food at reasonable prices. Visitors rave about the generous portions and delicious dishes such as the chicken sweet chili wrap and beef hoisin wrap. The atmosphere is described as relaxing, with up-to-date background music adding to the pleasant experience. Customers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff who contribute to the lovely atmosphere. Additionally, takeaway options are available for those who want to enjoy their meals at home.
Amazing service. Friendly snd warm atmosphere and amazing, tasty Sunday dinner... and only £10.95 for 2 delicious courses
Janis S — Google review
Great food, was made to feel welcome the minute I walked through the door, staff were lovely and the weekly bands are great
Fantastic re-opening yesterday!
Great selection of beers,wines and spirits.
Lovely atmosphere and great service.
Highly recommend.
Great pub,very good atmosphere and friendly.
Quality love music on Sundays too.
Good old pub food really nice friendly atmosphere
Absolutely fabulous food ile be back for more at later date
Very friendly and helpful staff, lovely atmosphere due to friendly happy staff. Great food at great prices 😋 will definitely be visiting again. Thanks for making our visit so lovely. And Alex our dog loved his sausage! Made extra special by being cut up for him by staff. So thoughtful.
We went for sunday lunch and all cleared our plates the food,all roasts, was delicious. How do they make that gravy.? Its delicious. Apple crumble and brownies were really tasty too. The staff very friendly and welcoming. Very good value for the price😊
Wigton Pl, Houghton le Spring, DH4 7ER, United Kingdom•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
The Beehive Pub
4.4
(674)
4.4
(314)
cheap
Bar
Restaurant
The Beehive Pub is a popular spot with a fantastic atmosphere and delicious food. Visitors have been blown away by the quality of the meals, from massive Yorkshire puddings to excellent meat and tasty gravy. The friendly staff and good service add to the overall experience. Despite being packed, it's worth the wait for a table as every visit promises an enjoyable time.
Amazing food! Love coming here for lunch. Very fair price for the quality of food you get. Staff always friendly
Jaydan H — Google review
Very difficult place to get a booking as it's very popular... Strange kind of place where it's like an old housing estate pub that does fantastic food... Although, be prepared to pay a lot for the food... Decent burgers start at around £15 but some burgers can be very expensive... You do get a lot though... The sizzling plates looked and smelled fantastic... There are plenty of staff so getting service is no problem. I'd probably like to go again and try something different next time... Apologies for the burger photo but I had started eating it then took the photo...
The food here is absolutely delicious! The portions are huge, the atmosphere is lovely and the staff are so laid back and professional! Can't wait to go back, thank you! X
Absolutely fantastic, we booked a table for a night out. The food we ordered was beautiful and the staff were so attentive. We will definitely be back!
Huge menu choice and food was fabulous. Staff very friendly and great service.
We've just had a beautiful lunch at the Beehive. It was only recommended to me that morning.
A very extensive menu with a specials menu also. There was far too much choice, so another visit would certainly be on the cards.
Food was excellent, huge portion and great value for money. You can see more on the pubs soicals.
This is definitely one for the foodie..
Some more local beers would be a plus. Great see Maxim on the bar.
We love this place. Chose it to celebrate a birthday this time round and the staff were amazing couldn’t do enough to help. Very attentive and welcoming. Even supported us bringing balloons giant birthday cookie and banners. Couldn’t get the candle we brought to stick into the cookie so the staff put candles in for us which was so kind. Food is always amazing so delicious and filling well worth every penny. 9 happy diners thank you so much for today see you again soon.
Been planning to go for a while after seeing photos on Facebook,half expected to be getting at least a little bit catfished but how wrong was I!! Food was amazing,staff very welcoming… Top marks
The Beehive pub, Sunniside, Houghton le Spring, DH4 5PW, United Kingdom•
Board Inn
4.5
(875)
4.5
(2)
cheap
Pub
If you're on the hunt for an affordable bottomless brunch experience in Sunderland, look no further than Board Inn. For just £20, you can indulge in a delicious brunch dish while enjoying 90 minutes of unlimited Prosecco and popular beers like Carling and Fosters. This welcoming community pub caters to all ages, making it a perfect spot for everyone from young adults to seniors.
First time in here today, ideally located on one of the main routes into Sunderland from the A19, good bus links and a stone's throw from a park which we also visited. I have to say the food was amazing and a great friendly atmosphere. The pub is nicely decorated and there is a beer garden to the side of the building.
You can order food via an app or at the bar. There is a wide selections of drinks on offer with some great ales available which really is a winner with my partner.
The boys have a quite particular range of foods they will but the large menu covered grill options, pub classics and lighter bites with a daily offer as well. Food was served within good time and everything was piping hot. We will definitely be returning.
Kay T — Google review
Great boozer! With 2 separate rooms, the bar & lounge and a beer garden. Both with a number of tele’s to get a cracking view to watch the Sport, who the owner always tries his hardest to get the best sport on at all times. Pub grub is pub grub, but the little things matter as the chefs attention to detail can’t be faulted. Best option on the menu - Burger by a country mile.
Very welcoming staff friendly family atmosphere food was great outdoor facilities especially the waltzer was fantastic I'll come again .
Great pub, lovely friendly atmosphere. Great selection of food and drinks. Would recommend anyone in the area to visit here.
fast service and kitchen is great, chef with mustache and tattoos is great craic, replaced my waffle fries with triple extra bacon when they were out of waffle fries
Just a great pub with good beer and brilliant staff. Sometimes just for a few drinks, sometimes for a meal..... but always good!
This is a relaxed local pub with very friendly staff very clean and a wide selection of drinks
Nice real ale pub, with friendly staff. A mix of local ales and a few from further afield. Great to have a Double Maxim after a looking time out of the area! They even have a loyalty card for real ale! Looking forward to the quiz night on Thursday!
Durham Rd, Middle Herrington, Sunderland SR3 3NS, United Kingdom•
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Best-of categories in Houghton-le-Spring
Restaurants
Family restaurants
Fast foodWhat's the weather like in Houghton-le-Spring?
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Houghton-le-Spring for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in January
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in February
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in March
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in April
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in May
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in June
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in July
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in August
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in September
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in October
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in November
- Weather in Houghton-le-Spring in December
Explore nearby places
- Houghton-le-Spring
- Washington
- Seaham
- Sunderland
- Durham
- Beamish
- Gateshead
- South Shields
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- North Shields
- Tynemouth
- Whitley Bay
- Hartlepool
- Bishop Auckland
- Newton Aycliffe
- Cramlington
- Ponteland
- Stockton-on-Tees
- Middlesbrough
- Darlington
- Stanhope
- Redcar
- Yarm
- Belsay
- Corbridge
- Ashington
- Morpeth
- Saltburn-by-the-Sea
- Hexham
- Barnard Castle
- Middleton in Teesdale
All related maps of Houghton-le-Spring
- Map of Houghton-le-Spring
- Map of Washington
- Map of Seaham
- Map of Sunderland
- Map of Durham
- Map of Beamish
- Map of Gateshead
- Map of South Shields
- Map of Newcastle upon Tyne
- Map of North Shields
- Map of Tynemouth
- Map of Whitley Bay
- Map of Hartlepool
- Map of Bishop Auckland
- Map of Newton Aycliffe
- Map of Cramlington
- Map of Ponteland
- Map of Stockton-on-Tees
- Map of Middlesbrough
- Map of Darlington
- Map of Stanhope
- Map of Redcar
- Map of Yarm
- Map of Belsay
- Map of Corbridge
- Map of Ashington
- Map of Morpeth
- Map of Saltburn-by-the-Sea
- Map of Hexham
- Map of Barnard Castle
- Map of Middleton in Teesdale
Houghton-le-Spring throughout the year
- Houghton-le-Spring in January
- Houghton-le-Spring in February
- Houghton-le-Spring in March
- Houghton-le-Spring in April
- Houghton-le-Spring in May
- Houghton-le-Spring in June
- Houghton-le-Spring in July
- Houghton-le-Spring in August
- Houghton-le-Spring in September
- Houghton-le-Spring in October
- Houghton-le-Spring in November
- Houghton-le-Spring in December
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