Arts & Poetry

Work on Westpark Nature Reserve commenced in 2001. At this point in time, in the wake of the Garden Festival in Gateshead, public art in the North East had taken off. Inspired by developments like the Angel of the North in Gateshead and David Mach's Brick Train in Darlington, developers Bussey & Armstrong were keen to use public art within Westpark. This was in line with their vision, grounded in Darlington’s Quaker heritage, of providing a high-quality living environment to the people of Darlington.

Over the last fifteen years, Bussey & Armstrong have worked with lead artist and poet W.N. Herbert on developing the art strategy for the park. This strategy took its inspiration from three species of animal that have made Westpark their home: the water vole, the dingy skipper butterfly and the little ringed plover. The various sculptures created by artists around the park are based on these animals in some way or another.

All sculptures are made from locally-sourced material, including Corten steel and stone from Teesside-based quarries. They are an organic part of the environment, both in their narrative and appearance.

For more information about the different works and artists, please have a look at the brochures provided through these links:

West Park Hospital

“the sun will cross
the whole tide of day
the apple will fill its belly
and bring us light
from the egg’s internal glow
all life will grow”

— Bill Herbert

West Park Hospital brochure 2 Sun, Apple, Egg

West Park Academy

(Formerly Alderman Leach Primary School at West Park)

West Park Academy internal Arts Brochure 2

West Park Village

Queens Jubilee 2022 Poetry

Click on the Your WestPark Poem to see more poetry and read more about our jubilee project

Walter the Water Vole

Spring Nature Trail 2024

The West Park Spring Trail, an enchanting self-guided adventure through the heart of the park! Join us on a journey following the captivating tale of Walter the Water Vole as he embarks on a quest to discover an Easter Egg and find a safe haven to enjoy it.

As you wander through the park, enjoy as the story unfolds and follow the numbered boards, each marking a pivotal moment in Walter’s adventure. Follow his footsteps and uncover the magic of his journey.

But that’s not all – as you explore, keep an eagle eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call West Park home. Download Walters adventure and you could even write his diary entry about his Easter journey.

Thanks to Stellar our 2024 events partner and Katherine Lynas Walter’s creator.