Newcastle is a city which is undoubtedly home to many boast-worthy parks. As we move out of winter and towards what should hopefully be the sunnier months of the year, you’re going to need to know which are the best of the best. Here are a few of the best parks in Newcastle!
Jesmond Dene
Arguably the crown jewel of the Newcastle park scene, Jesmond Dene can be absolutely breath-taking at its best. Located in the heart of Jesmond, the park is a wonderful walk nestled in a valley. Not only do its steep banks provide you with plenty of areas to explore, you’re rewarded with the communities’ favourite petting zoo, ‘Pet’s Corner’ near the centre of the park, complete with all the animals you could ever want, and more.
If you don’t fancy that, the Old Mill and the ruins of St Mary’s Chapel, the oldest religious building in Newcastle, are two lovely spots to relax by. Whatever you want from a day in the park, The Dene can definitely provide it and is one of the must-see attractions in Newcastle.
Heaton Park
Located a stone’s throw from The Dene, Heaton Park is a beautiful spot, steeped in history, featuring several ruins of buildings such as an old windmill and King John’s Palace. The placards and tourist information boards scattered around the place provide you with a checklist of things to see, so this is definitely one for the history buffs.
If you want a more casual experience, the walkways and patches of flat greenery are perfect for leisure time, with a nice Italian restaurant located in the middle of the pavilion. A real favourite of the locals, Heaton Park is absolutely worth your time and attention.
Exhibition Park
Complete with a serene lake, a skatepark, and tennis and basketball courts, Exhibition Park is filled to the brim with things to do. Boasting plenty of flat greenery, the park is absolutely perfect for any would-be picnickers, and the Wylam Brewery is a great tour to take when it eventually reopens. A café next door to the brewery provides a perfect place to relax and enjoy a brew.
The park also plays host to the annual Newcastle Mela, a celebration of Asian culture and cuisine, which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend. It is also the host of 2021’s UK Northern Pride event, running from July 23rd-25th, a great opportunity to show your support, with live-streaming set to be available if you can’t make it.
Rising Sun Country Park
Located in the district of Benton, the country park requires a little bit of transit from the usual student areas but is absolutely worth the trip. The 400 acres of land are home to a farm, which encompasses 175 of those acres, bird hides, and plenty of different walking routes.
The sheer size of the country park makes it the perfect day trip; there’s so much to do here, and the dedicated picnic and barbeque facilities mean you can really stay all day. The parking makes it easily accessible by car too, so you’ll have no issues with bringing any equipment or supplies you may need.
Leazes Park
The oldest park in Newcastle, Leazes is the perfect place to kick back and relax. With a nice view of St James’ Park, and a gorgeous lake to match, it’s the best park of the lot to just lounge about, read a book, or do a spot of fishing. The park is also fitted with tennis and basketball courts for some sporting activity when available.
Accessibility to the park is easy, located just on the outskirts of the city centre. If you’re planning to make your way through a few parks on an extended walk, Leazes is absolutely the best place to start from.
These are some of Newcastle’s very best parks, and I’d definitely recommend you take some time to explore at least a couple over the next few months. Taking a walk, physical benefits aside, is a great way to de-stress as we get towards the winding-down period of the academic year. Hopefully we’re treated to some sunny weather to really bring the best out of these relaxing spots.
