Cross Lane Meadows Local Nature Reserve
Cross Lane Meadows is the large area of wildflower meadows next to the A1 opposite the MetroCentre. Formerly arable farming fields this site is now protected for its wildlife and landscape value.
In spring Cross Lane Meadows has one of the north east's most spectacular display of cowslips. In summer flowers like ox-eye daisy take over and the meadow is alive with insects and butterflies feeding on all the nectar. For such an urban site it is amazing to hear skylarks singing high above the site in summer and kestrels hovering in search of prey.
To the west of the Meadows is Station Wood Community Woodland - so called because it was next to the now demolished old Swallwell Fire Station. Works have been carried out to create a new entrance point to Cross Lane Meadows across the site of the old Fire Station.
Grid reference: NZ 212620
Management
Cross Lanes Meadows is managed by Durham Wildlife Trust.
- For more information visit the Cross Lane Meadows page on the Durham Wildlife Trust website. (opens new window)
Durham Wildlife Trust
Rainton Meadows
Chilton Moor
Houghton-le-Spring
DH4 6PU
0191 584 3112
mail@durhamwt.co.uk
Contact us
Gateshead Council Countryside Team
Waste Services and Ground Maintenance,
Local Environmental Services,
Park Road, Gateshead
0191 433 7412