Rainton Meadows, Nature reserve in County Durham, England
The 60-hectare Rainton Meadows encompasses grasslands, wetlands, woodlands, and several ponds, creating a diverse environment for local wildlife species.
The land transformed from the former Rye Hill surface coal mine into a nature reserve in 1997 under Durham Wildlife Trust management.
The reserve functions as Durham Wildlife Trust headquarters, offering educational programs in a purpose-built classroom to connect people with nature.
Visitors can reach Rainton Meadows via the A690 between Durham and Sunderland, with regular bus services 20A and 35 stopping at Rainton Bridge.
The reserve provides habitats for mute swans, skylarks, lapwings, short-eared owls, brown hares, and supports a population of water voles.
GPS coordinates: 54.82890,-1.46000
Latest update: March 11, 2025 13:32
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