Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre

Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre The Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre is a unique heritage attraction and education centr It is also a thriving educational facility for all ages.

The Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre is a unique heritage attraction and education centre, offering something for everyone in the heart of Old Sunderland. Set in a designated conservation area of the City of Sunderland, this rare and modest Heritage Centre boasts some distinctive features worthy of a visit. Located within the east end of Sunderland bordered by an impressive grade I listed brick built church of 1719 and the notable Trafalgar Square almshouses of 1840. This former Georgian charity school and headmistresses house is now a restored centre for numerous community heritage events and activities. The Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre is open 5 days a week, 9am to 4pm; although groups and schools can pre-arrange special visits, and free parking and entry to the site are available(admission fees applicable to some special events and attractions). The centre consists of a restored schoolroom dating from 1798 and a school mistress’s cottage (1827). Its original educational purpose is now perpetuated as the centre offers varied and enjoyable educational opportunities to all ages. The centre also boasts a much admired award-winning Victorian-style walled garden and herb garden. The centre is supported by The Friends of The Donnison School (FODs) who are dedicated volunteers.

07/10/2026

Just some of the beautiful gifts on sale. Grab a cuppa in the cafe and browse the lovely gifts, trinkets and jewelry 🥰 fans Sunderland Live Sunderland, UK Sunderland Echo

Another shout out for the Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre and the volunteers who keep its doors open and p...
07/10/2026

Another shout out for the Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre and the volunteers who keep its doors open and provide a warm welcome. fans Sunderland History

07/10/2026

Just a reminder .... Margaret getting prepared for her Lovell Lecture talk at the end of the month... She's here to tell you all about it ... Tickets selling fast 😁 Just love our volunteers, they are amazing 😍 fans Sunderland Events and Promotion Sunderland Live

25/09/2026

Step into the world of Rudyard Kipling with our amazing volunteer speaker Gordon Donkin as he explores Kipling’s life, inspiration, impact and the controversies that still spark conversation today.

📅 Monday 28th September
🕖 Starts 1.30pm
🍷 £5 per person – refreshments included
📍 The Donnison School Heritage & Education Centre, Sunderland
Events North Sunderland Events and Promotion

16/09/2026

✨ Fancy a day out with a difference?
We’re heading to the Pickering War Weekend on Saturday 10th October a fantastic celebration of 1940s life, music and culture.
Expect vintage outfits, dancing, military displays and a brilliant community atmosphere.
Tickets are £21, and you’re welcome to dress up in your WWII clothing to join the fun.

📧 [email protected]
📞 07443 653838

We’d love to have you with us for this special Donnison School trip.
Events North Sunderland Echo

🍂 Autumn at The Donnison SchoolPause for a moment of calm and connection this season.Join us for our Autumn Speciality C...
16/09/2026

🍂 Autumn at The Donnison School
Pause for a moment of calm and connection this season.
Join us for our Autumn Speciality Cream Tea; a celebration of tradition, friendship, and freshly baked indulgence.

🫖 Wednesdays 23 Sept, 14 Oct & 4 Nov
📍 The Donnison School Heritage Centre, Sunderland
💷 £15 per person
Bookings must be booked by the Saturday before each Wednesday Cream Tea

Enjoy a selection of homemade sandwiches, fruit scones, cream cakes, and a pot of tea with your favourite flavours.

📧 [email protected]
📞 0191 565 4835 / 07443 653838

Let’s make autumn deliciously memorable together 🍰
Donnison School Heritage and Education Centre Living History -North East East Sunderland Community Events North

02/09/2026

🚌✨ Fancy a festive day out?
Join The Donnison School for our Coach Trip to Ripon & Harrogate on Saturday 5th December, a perfect winter escape to two of North Yorkshire’s most charming towns.

Explore Harrogate’s stunning Victorian architecture, independent shops, beautiful gardens and spa‑town atmosphere… the historic sights of Ripon, one of England’s oldest cities.

💷 £21 per person
🕘 Departing 9am from Burdon Road War Memorial
📍 Donnison School Heritage Centre

📞 0191 565 4835
📧 [email protected]

Book now — don’t miss it! Sunderland Echo Events North

02/09/2026

The Life and Works of Rudyard Kipling by Gordon Donkin

Address

Church Walk
Sunderland
SR12BJ

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 3:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 3:30pm
Thursday 11am - 3:30pm
Friday 9am - 3:30pm

Website

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