Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve

Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve A showcase for nature’s power to restore and rejuvenate, DWT has transformed this former surface c
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A showcase for nature’s power to restore and rejuvenate, DWT has transformed this former surface coal mine
into lakes, wetlands, woodlands and
grasslands.

07/09/2026

The future of National Lottery funding is being decided.

From precious wild places and threatened species, to the green spaces that help communities thrive, nature is part of who we are.

But National Lottery funding could be taken away. This would be a mistake that will impact communities and wildlife across the UK.

For years, the National Lottery Heritage Fund has helped bring wildlife back, restore habitats, tackle climate change, reduce flood risk and connect communities of all kinds with nature. But in the UK Government's current plans, nature is not considered part of "heritage".

This means vital funding for wildlife and habitat restoration could end. People and wildlife will lose out.
There’s a short time left to respond to the consultation – please tell the UK Government that nature IS heritage and must continue to be supported through National Lottery funding.

Nature is our heritage. 💚Can you give your voice to nature today?

https://action.wildlifetrusts.org/page/199433/action/1?ea.tracking.id=Facebook

Come and join us at this fun, family event!
02/09/2026

Come and join us at this fun, family event!

Saturday 12th September Join us in St Barnabas Burnmoor for Heritage Day and our Conservation day. Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve and Out there adventures will be there too.

A six-spotted sighting at Rainton Meadows from a couple of weeks ago. 🦋😍
20/08/2026

A six-spotted sighting at Rainton Meadows from a couple of weeks ago. 🦋😍

19/08/2026

Common tern chicks on the raft at Rainton Meadows. A small sighting sparking very big smiles. 😀
📷 Brian Howes

30/07/2026

⚠️ Due to continued hot and dry weather, the Trust will not be making any more charcoal for the foreseeable future. Charcoal-making under these conditions can pose a fire risk and will therefore be postponed until safer weather conditions.

There are currently low stocks of charcoal available to purchase from Rainton Meadows Visitor Centre, Low Barns Visitor Centre and Broom House Farm.

21/07/2026

Visitor notice: the coffee shop will be closed on Wednesday 22nd July for maintenance.

09/07/2026
A giant house spider spotted today at Rainton Meadows. It is likely that the large abdomen is because it is a pregnant f...
08/07/2026

A giant house spider spotted today at Rainton Meadows. It is likely that the large abdomen is because it is a pregnant female. 🕷️

Address

Rainton Meadows, Chilton Moor, Houghton-le-Spring
Houghton Le Spring
DH46PU

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 10am - 4:30pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm
Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4:30pm
Sunday 10am - 4pm

Telephone

+441915843112

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