Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre

Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre The Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre is a unique heritage attraction and education centr It is also a thriving educational facility for all ages.

The Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre is a unique heritage attraction and education centre, offering something for everyone in the heart of Old Sunderland. Set in a designated conservation area of the City of Sunderland, this rare and modest Heritage Centre boasts some distinctive features worthy of a visit. Located within the east end of Sunderland bordered by an impressive grade I listed brick built church of 1719 and the notable Trafalgar Square almshouses of 1840. This former Georgian charity school and headmistresses house is now a restored centre for numerous community heritage events and activities. The Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre is open 5 days a week, 9am to 4pm; although groups and schools can pre-arrange special visits, and free parking and entry to the site are available(admission fees applicable to some special events and attractions). The centre consists of a restored schoolroom dating from 1798 and a school mistress’s cottage (1827). Its original educational purpose is now perpetuated as the centre offers varied and enjoyable educational opportunities to all ages. The centre also boasts a much admired award-winning Victorian-style walled garden and herb garden. The centre is supported by The Friends of The Donnison School (FODs) who are dedicated volunteers.

16/09/2026

✨ Fancy a day out with a difference?
We’re heading to the Pickering War Weekend on Saturday 10th October a fantastic celebration of 1940s life, music and culture.
Expect vintage outfits, dancing, military displays and a brilliant community atmosphere.
Tickets are £21, and you’re welcome to dress up in your WWII clothing to join the fun.

📧 [email protected]
📞 07443 653838

We’d love to have you with us for this special Donnison School trip.
Events North Sunderland Echo

🍂 Autumn at The Donnison SchoolPause for a moment of calm and connection this season.Join us for our Autumn Speciality C...
16/09/2026

🍂 Autumn at The Donnison School
Pause for a moment of calm and connection this season.
Join us for our Autumn Speciality Cream Tea; a celebration of tradition, friendship, and freshly baked indulgence.

🫖 Wednesdays 23 Sept, 14 Oct & 4 Nov
📍 The Donnison School Heritage Centre, Sunderland
💷 £15 per person
Bookings must be booked by the Saturday before each Wednesday Cream Tea

Enjoy a selection of homemade sandwiches, fruit scones, cream cakes, and a pot of tea with your favourite flavours.

📧 [email protected]
📞 0191 565 4835 / 07443 653838

Let’s make autumn deliciously memorable together 🍰
Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre Living History -North East East Sunderland Community Events North

02/09/2026

🚌✨ Fancy a festive day out?
Join The Donnison School for our Coach Trip to Ripon & Harrogate on Saturday 5th December, a perfect winter escape to two of North Yorkshire’s most charming towns.

Explore Harrogate’s stunning Victorian architecture, independent shops, beautiful gardens and spa‑town atmosphere… the historic sights of Ripon, one of England’s oldest cities.

💷 £21 per person
🕘 Departing 9am from Burdon Road War Memorial
📍 Donnison School Heritage Centre

📞 0191 565 4835
📧 [email protected]

Book now — don’t miss it! Sunderland Echo Events North

02/09/2026

The Life and Works of Rudyard Kipling by Gordon Donkin

02/09/2026

Back this September by popular demand at The Donnison School!
Join us for Let’s Talk Murder, a friendly, thought‑provoking discussion club exploring real cases, justice, and the stories behind the headlines. Perfect for curious minds, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good mystery.

📅 Wednesdays, 1.30pm – 3pm
💷 £4.00 (refreshments included)
📍 Donnison School Heritage Centre, SR1 2BJ
Come along, meet new people, and enjoy an afternoon of conversation.
🔗 Book now: donnisonschoolheritagecentre.com
07443 653838

📜✨ Commemoration Service – 307 Years of Sunderland’s Parish Church - at The heart of Sunderland's Heritage.Join us on ...
02/09/2026

📜✨ Commemoration Service – 307 Years of Sunderland’s Parish Church - at The heart of Sunderland's Heritage.
Join us on Saturday 5th September at 2pm as we mark the Consecration of Sunderland Parish Church (Holy Trinity) a defining moment in the history of Old Sunderland.

This annual service, led by Fr Andrew Collins‑Jones, commemorates the 1719 consecration performed by the Rt Revd Dr John Robinson, Bishop of London.
This year, due to maintenance at 17Nineteen, the service will be held in the beautiful Grade II listed Donnison School Georgian building on Church Walk (SR1 2BJ).

We are grateful to Janette Hilton and Living History North East for welcoming the Parish into this historic space.

📅 Saturday 5th September
🕑 2pm
📍 Donnison School Heritage Centre, SR1 2BJ
🍰🍰 Refreshments provided

All are warmly invited to join us in honouring this special day in Sunderland’s story. Sunderland Echo Events North Sunderland Events and Promotion 17Nineteen

📚✨ Join us for an afternoon of literary discovery! We’re delighted to welcome Gordon Donkin back to The Donnison School...
02/09/2026

📚✨ Join us for an afternoon of literary discovery!
We’re delighted to welcome Gordon Donkin back to The Donnison School for a fascinating talk exploring the life and works of Rudyard Kipling, one of Britain’s most influential and complex writers.
From The Jungle Book to If, Kipling’s stories have shaped generations. Gordon brings knowledge, warmth and insight, making this a perfect event for lovers of literature, history and storytelling.

📅 Date: Monday 28th September 1.30pm
📍 The Donnison School Heritage Centre
🎟️ Booking: on site or on-line
REFRESHMENTS INCLUDED🍰🍰
https://www.donnisonschoolheritagecentre.com/event-details/the-life-and-works-of-rudyard-kipling-by-gordon-donkin

Come along, learn something new, and enjoy an inspiring community afternoon. https://www.donnisonschoolheritagecentre.com/event-details/the-life-and-works-of-rudyard-kipling-by-gordon-donkin Sunderland Events and Promotion Sunderland Echo Events North

The Life and Works of Rudyard Kipling by Gordon Donkin

Address

Church Walk
Sunderland
SR12BJ

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 3:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 3:30pm
Thursday 11am - 3:30pm
Friday 9am - 3:30pm

Website

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