For a spectacular oasis of calm just outside the city center of Newcastle, visit Jesmond Dene Park. Its dense woodland comprises a variety of trees, in and around which red squirrels and forest birds roam. Go on a pleasant stroll with your family along one of the walking paths.
Arrive at the modern visitor center and chat with the park rangers about the ecology and layout of the park. Head next door to the majestic Millfield House, where you’ll find a café and restrooms.
Back outside, relax on a patch of grass and enjoy a picnic with your friends in this picturesque setting. Let your kids run free on the renovated playground. Bring them to the Pets Corner, where they can get a closer look at alpacas and other animals.
Relax on the lawn and enjoy the views near the scenic Paddy Freemans Boating Lake. Another play area, café and set of restrooms border the lake.
Wander into the dense forest on the steep bank of the Ouseburn River to spot woodland birds and red squirrels. Enjoy the utter tranquility in the park, as you listen to the chorus of the birds.
Attend a workshop on the local habitats and food chains of the wildlife in this park. You can arrange school classes in the visitor center. Admire the ruins of St. Mary’s Chapel, considered one of Newcastle’s oldest buildings.
Find Jesmond Dene Park in the Jesmond neighborhood that occupies the northeastern corner of central Newcastle. Ride a bus from the city center to the western edge of the park to arrive in about 20 minutes. You can also travel by metro to the South Gosforth station, which is a 15-minute walk north from the park. The park is free to enter and stays open all year.
While in Jesmond, be sure to visit other nearby sights such as the Dukes Moor, the Town Moor and the Banqueting House.
