Mowbray Park, Sunderland

Located in the center of the city of Sunderland, Mowbray Park is a pretty Victorian Park that was opened in 1857. It's the oldest Park in the city and in recent years it's undergone a huge make over and revamp with the help of some government funding and a heritage lottery grant. As well as beautiful flowers and stunning greenery, the park is home to a large lake which is the home to lots of ducks, a well kept children's play area and a bowling green. Whilst not huge, the park is very pretty and nicely set out. It's perfect for picnics on summer days and there's plenty of of space to tire out excitable children.
There also events held in the park during the summer, including mini festivals and Teddy Bear's picnics for younger visitors. The winter months holds host to 'Winter Wonderland', a free family event where the park is beautifully lit up with light installations. The Park is a lovely place to visit during the day, its free, peaceful and a wonderful world away from the buys shops in Sunderland city center.