Local venues for environmental educational visits
There are a wide range of countryside centres and other venues throughout the Tees Valley that offer schools and other educational groups hands-on environmental activities. Here is a list of venues and contact details.
The Tees Valley Wildlife Trust provides an environmental Education Service that covers the Tees Valley.
Visit http://teeswildlife.org/new/node/58 for details.
Middlesbrough
Nature’s World
Nature’s World, Middlesbrough, is a unique site which aims to provide information, ideas and inspiration for living in harmony with nature, and improving our environment. By using sustainable practices, such as renewable energy and recycling, a 25-acre peaceful rural haven on the edge of a thriving urban centre has been created. It can provide educational visits on a variety of sustainability topics.
Address:
Nature’s World, Ladgate Lane, Acklam, Middlesbrough TS5 7YN
Tel: 01642 594895
Stockton
Saltholme Wildlife Reserve and Discovery Park
The RSPB team at Saltholme will give your pupils the chance to experience the wonderful range of wildlife that lies in the heart of our industrial landscape.
Saltholme’s many restored and created habitats have an abundance of bird life throughout the year, and a rich variety of plants, invertebrates and other wildlife. The safe, specially designed discovery zone complete with pond dipping platforms, minibeast areas and a light-filled, welcoming bird hide is all within easy walking distance of the well-equipped visitor centre. The centre features a bespoke, inspiring classroom providing indoor space for groups if needed.
Address: Seaton Carew Road, Port Clarence, Middlesbrough TS2 1TU
Tel: 01642 546625
www.rspb.org.uk/saltholme
Hartlepool
Summerhill Nature Reserve and Outdoor Sports Centre
Summerhill is a unique Country Park. Set on the western edge of Hartlepool, the 100-acre site has been transformed from low-grade farmland into a Local Nature Reserve that is also an outdoor sports centre. School visits can be arranged for map reading and orienteering, archaeological activities, boulder climbing, archery and environmental games activities.
Address:
Summerhill Visitor Centre, Summerhill Lane, Hartlepool TS25 4LL
Tel: 01429 284584
Teesmouth Field Centre
Teesmouth Field Centre is adjacent to the entrance of Hartlepool Power Station and every year the facilities and exhibits are enjoyed by over 3500 school children, students and members of the public. Wheelchair access, parking and toilets are available.
Educational and recreational groups of all ages are welcome. Two full-time staff, together with several volunteers, provide a varied programme of field studies throughout the year by prior arrangement.
Address:
Field Centre, Hartlepool Power Station, Tees Road, Hartlepool TS25 2BZ
Tel: 01429 264912
Redcar and Cleveland
Guisborough Forest and Walkway
The Guisborough Forest and Walkway is situated in Pinchinthorpe on the outskirts of Guisborough. It extends for 2.5 miles along part of the route followed by the old Guisborough Branch Railway line, heading west towards Nunthorpe, and east to Guisborough Forest, which is managed by Forest Enterprise. It is a gateway site to the North York Moors National Park and offers splendid views of Roseberry Topping to the south. Points of local interest include Highcliff Nab and the Hanging Stone. Captain Cook’s Monument is also within walking distance. The Rangers offer an environment educational service for schools and groups.
www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/main.nsf/web+full+list/3529cb9ebdcbf6e580256b9c00497907?opendocument
Address:
Guisborough Forest & Walkway, Pinchinthorpe, Guisborough TS14 8HD
Tel: (01287) 631132
Flatts Lane Country Park
Flatts Lane Country Park is the perfect place to explore the countryside south of Normanby. The park is also an ideal starting point from which to visit the Eston Hills. The site is rich in history and wildlife and its countryside rangers are able to advise and assist with educational visits.
www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/main.nsf/Web+Full+List/F729B6E7C67F4B4180256B9C0049289E?OpenDocument
Address:
Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park, Flatts Lane, Normanby, Middlesbrough TS6 0NN
Tel: (01642) 459629
