Public events

In conjunction with South Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council's countryside team and other colleagues at Groundwork South Tyneside, we are involved organising and running a programme of public events. Those listed below take are held at West Boldon Environmental Education Centre, however, many more events take place throughout the Borough, throughout the year. For a full events list see the STMBC website, leaflets or contact the Countryside Team. Booking is necessary for all of the listed events

Spring Fruits - Wild Food Event (May)
Sample the delights of nature's larder. Many of the wild plants around us are edible and once common ingredients in English cooking or herbal remedies. This event gives you a chance to find out what you can eat and to try a few recipes such as nettle soup, gorse flower tea and comfrey fritters, sprinkled with a little folklore about the plants we see around us. This event is most suitable for older children and adults

Minibeast Safari - Midsummer
This event is for all those intrepid explorer's out there, brave enough to face the greater water boatman or tackle the hawthorn shield bug! Come and investigate the minibeasts which inhabit the ponds, woodland and meadows on site at West Boldon Environmental Education Centre. The Centre staff will provide equipment and instruction, and help you find out about the creatures you encounter. Great Midsummer family fun.

Get Batty & Mothy - August
Bats are absolutely fascinating creatures who get lots of bad press! Find out more about these unique mammals by coming along to this event. The evening starts with an optional barbecue. You can make a bat box to take home, listen to an informal talk about bats and perhaps even meet a live one face to face. As dusk falls, see what we catch in the humane moth trap and accompany staff with bat detectors on a walk around site to see which species live at West Boldon.

Witch & Wizard Workshop - October
Fancy yourself as the next Harry or Hermione? At our witch & wizard workshop you can find your very own magic wand, make a traditional witches broom and have your face painted. Test your knowledge of all things spooky with our halloween quiz and make crafty things to take home such as bat mobiles and scary spiders.

Willow Weaving Workshop - January
A chance to try your hand at a traditional skill - willow weaving. Under expert tuition, make something to take home for your house or garden and learn the basics of basket weaving. Join in with the group to create a larger structure to adorn the site such as living willow tunnels and domes or an animal sculpture made from brash and woven with willow.