Our flamingos are currently off-show due to the cold and icy weather. Apologies for any inconvenience.

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Wader Lake works

Our reserve team are working on Wader Lake today (Thursday 21 November) which may cause disturbance to the wildlife in the area. Thank you for your patience.

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Washington Wetland Centre

Pattinson, Washington, Tyne and Wear, NE38 8LE
0191 416 5454
info.washington@wwt.org.uk
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WWT Washington Wetland Centre sits on the north bank of the River Wear, overlooked by the region's famous Penshaw Monument. It is easily accessible by public and private transport.

The centre is east of Washington town centre in Pattinson (formerly District 15), four miles from the A1(M), one mile from the A19 and signposted off the A195, A19, A182 and A1231 Washington Highway.

By bus

The centre is served daily by buses to the Waterview Park government building and is just a short walk down the lane. Please visit https://www.gonortheast.co.uk/services and search ‘Waterview Park’ for the latest timetable information.

By rail

Sunderland rail station is a 15-minute car/bus ride away, while Newcastle and Durham stations are about 10 minutes further afield.

By Metro

The region’s underground Metro train service has stations with direct bus links to Washington town centre. These can be found in Sunderland (Park Lane Interchange), Newcastle (Haymarket or Eldon Square), Gateshead (Gateshead Interchange) and Heworth.

By bike

Cycling is an environmentally friendly and pleasant way to arrive at the centre, which is on the Sustrans Coast to Coast (C2C) Cycle Route. The River Wear trail also passes by (accessible by bike and on foot). Free cycle racks are available.

By coach

The centre has ample free parking for five large coaches. Please book spaces by prior arrangement.

By car

There is extensive free parking for visitors arriving by car, although where possible we would encourage the use of more environmentally friendly forms of transport.

The centre is located 10 minutes from the A1M (south bound - take junction 65 and follow signs for the A1231 to Sunderland, then follow the brown duck signs; north bound - take junction 64 and do the same) and two minutes from the A19 (take the A1231 exit and follow signs towards Gateshead, then follow the brown duck signs). You can follow the brown duck signs to the centre from the A195, A19, A182 and A1231.