11 nice spring walks in Newcastle: best local springtime trails near me - from Jesmond Dene to Leazes Park

We’re ready to cast off the shackles of winter, and one of the best ways to do this is to take in some of the breathtaking scenery around Newcastle by going on a spring time walk.

Here are 11 spots in and around Newcastle where you can blow off the cobwebs with a walk during the first days of spring.

The Leas, South Tyneside Coast

Part of the Whitburn Coastal Park, the Leas is two and a half miles of weather beaten coastline on which nature has reclaimed old colliery land.

There are walking routes to suit every ability, varying from three kilometres, to five kilometres and the longest trail of 10 kilometres.

164 Mill Lane, Sunderland, SR6 7NQ https://www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk/article/63002/South-Tyneside-Coastal-Trails

Jesmond Dene

The dene, which lies between South Gosforth and Jesmond Vale, is an important area for wildlife and local nature.

A home to many animals, including kingfishers and red squirrels, the dene stretches for three miles and is connected with paths and bridges throughout.

A recommended spot is Pet’s Corner, a popular visitor attraction where you can see pot bellied pigs, goats and sheep as well as lots of other animals.

Pet’s Corner is open 10am- 4pm seven days a  week.

Red Walk, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7BQ https://urbangreennewcastle.org/our-green-spaces/find-your-park/jesmond-dene

Marsden Circular Walk, South Tyneside

A seven mile route, the Marsden Circular takes in both coast and countryside.

Looping around Whitburn and taking in sites such as Souter Lighthouse, the walk has some of the best views in the region.

The address of Whitburn Bents car park, a popular starting point for the walk, is listed below.

Whitburn Bents Rd, Sunderland SR6 7NT https://www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk/article/62999/Walking

Tynemouth Blue Plaque Walk

If you’re interested in combining your walk with a step into history, then this blue plaque walk could be ideal for you.

Taking you round Tynemouth and North Shields, you can take a glimpse into the region’s history and some of the famous faces who have made their mark here by noting the blue plaques on nearby buildings.

A stand out point in the walk is past a statue of Stan Laurel, one half of the iconic Hollywood duo ‘Laurel and Hardy’ who lived in North Shields as a child.

Front Street Tynemouth Tyne & Wear NE30 4BT https://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/sites/default/files/web-page-related-files/Blue%20plaque%20walk_0.pdf

Leazes Park

The oldest park in Newcastle city centre, Leazes Park is an ideal place to enjoy some peace away from the often hectic streets of the city.

With a restored lake and a memorial garden, the park has plenty of space for a peaceful walk.

If you wish to blow off steam another way, you can enjoy the tennis courts which are available to people of all ages.

Richardson Rd, Lodge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4BJ https://urbangreennewcastle.org/our-green-spaces/find-your-park/leazes-park

Exhibition Park

Located just a 25 minute walk from Newcastle Central Station, Exhibition Park is ideal for everyone from dog walkers to families.

With stretches of tree lined paths and plenty of space for activities, your walk can be one to remember in this corner of Toon.

Claremont Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4PZ https://urbangreennewcastle.org/our-green-spaces/find-your-park/exhibition-park

Quayside

One of the more familiar walks to Geordies is the circular route around the Quayside.

The two mile walk takes in the riverside in both Gateshead and Newcastle, the Millenium Bridge, the Sage and many other points of interest.

The Newcastle Guildhall is one potential starting point for the walk. The address for the building is listed below

Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3AF https://newcastlegateshead.com/explore/quayside

Heaton Park

The park is the heartbeat of the area, and is well connected to Jesmond Dene and the Ouseburn Valley via a series of footpaths.

Heaton Park is rich in wildlife, and it’s close proximity to the city centre makes it easily accessible.

To plan your day at the park visit the Urban Green Newcastle website, the charity which cares for parks in Newcastle.

Neville Hall, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne https://urbangreennewcastle.org/our-green-spaces/find-your-park/heaton-park

Armstrong Park

Sitting on the East bank of the Ouseburn Valley, Armstrong Park is connected by footpaths to both Jesmond Dene and Heaton Park.

Like most Newcastle parks, Armstrong Park provides a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

1 Burlington Gardens, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 5QJ https://urbangreennewcastle.org/our-green-spaces/find-your-park/armstrong-park

Ouseburn Valley

The Ouseburn Valley has been mentioned on more than one occasion so far, but this next walk is for the valley itself.

Starting from Newcastle Quayside, a 2.3 mile circular walk has been outlined by exercise group ‘Walk Run Cycle’.

The route will take you up the valley and then around back into the city centre.

The walk takes you past pubs and cafes, so don’t be shy to drop in for a pitstop!

The circular route is designed to start and finish on the Newcastle side of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

http://walkruncycle.com/ouseburn-valley-circular-walk/

Rising Sun Country Park

Covering 162 hectares of the North Tyneside countryside, the country park is a true haven.

Extensive footpaths around the park means that you’ll have plenty of options of where to go.

Selected routes are wheelchair accessible and with cafes and benches around the park, you’ll not be short of places to rest after your walk.

Whitley Road, Benton, NE12 9SS https://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/category/385/rising-sun-country-park