Escape from the hustle and bustle of city life; take a walk, watch wildlife, go mountain biking or ride a horse.
Discover some highlights
Washington Wetland Centre
Set on the banks of the River Wear, this vibrant and fascinating site is home to exotic birds, amazing insects, beautiful wild scenery and so much more!
Herrington Country Park
Home to the annual County Show and other outdoor events, Herrington Country Park offers walks, cycle trails, environmental sculptures and much more.
Red Kite Trail
Woodlands, riverside meadows and the Derwent Walk, also including the Northern Kites project which has brought breeding red kites back to the region.
Gibside
Gibside is a forest garden currently under restoration, embracing many miles of walks through woodland and beside the river Derwent.
More like this
NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland, South Tyneside and North Tyneside have a wide range of wonderful activities, events, festivals and heritage for you to discover; whatever the weather, all year round.
See the full list of countryside attractions
Did you know that over half of Gateshead is made up of Countryside? These wonderful places include ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, ponds and riverbanks and most are just a bus ride away. Take a walk, watch wildlife and escape from the stresses of modern life.