In June 2022 Tees Archaeology and SeaScapes excavated the site of the former Roker gun battery site at Cliffe Park. This area is now a green and pleasant cliff-top park with seating; however, the park was previously used intensively by the military to provide coastal sea defences to the mouth of the River Wear and Sunderland Harbour during times of war and unrest. The defences included two 6-inch guns that were installed in 1917, in what is now the two circular seating areas. There are many other signs of the strategic role Sunderland played in protecting the coast during WWI and WWII if you know where to look.

This walk and talk will explore some of this story and highlight remaining heritage objects from this history. There’ll also be opportunity to discuss some of the finds from the excavation of the gun Battery site in June.

The walking route is around 4.5km and is easy walking on paved paths, with a slight gradient in places. The walk will leave Fausto Coffee, Marine Walk, Roker at 10am and return to Fausto between 12-12:30 (depending on the length of discussion at various stopping points). The walk will be led by National Trust trained walk leaders Hilary and Peter, who also volunteered on the Roker excavation.

This event is part of the BlueScapes project for SeaScapes and is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

BOOK NOW