Sunderland Guide: Backhouse Park
Location: Ryhope Rd, Sunderland SR2 2EF
Backhouse Park is a urban public park located in between Ashbrooke and Hendon to the South of Sunderland City Centre.
History
The park’s shape is the product of a natural valley that was carved out by the stream known as the Hendon Burn, which traditionally made its way into the North Sea at what is now Sunderland docks.
During the Middle Ages, the northwest flank of the park was used as farming land, and marks of this “ridge and furrow” arrangement remain.
By the early modern era, the era became associated with Romance, and during the 19th century it bore the name “The Valley of Love”.
As the area around it urbanized, the park itself came into being in 1922 after the land was sold by its owner Thomas William Backhouse, who’s name it is derived from. It hosts a variety of botanical and wildlife, including wild parakeets.
The park is an excellent choice for a daytime walk or relaxation, reflecting the leafy and pleasant atmosphere of this area of Sunderland
Eat and Drink
The Rosedene Pub and Flaming Grill
