1. The Leas, South Tyneside Coast
A beautiful stretch of just over 300 acres of grassy open space, The Leas is managed by the National Trust and offers six different walkways from short strolls just over 1 mile to a much longer 4.5-mile path which allows absolutely everybody to enjoy the stunning coastline that is accessible in a short drive from Newcastle.
Many of the walks around The Leas also pass by Souter Lighthouse which is extremely photogenic and for a time it was the world’s most advanced lighthouse when it opened in 1871. You can challenge yourself to the walk which best suits your endurance or take on any at a leisurely pace.
2. Warkworth Hermitage, Warkworth
On the grounds next to the more famous Warkworth Castle, Warkworth Hermitage is both bizarre and a fantastic location to visit and enjoy a stroll around the local area.
You can only access the Hermitage by water, with a fare paid to the local ferryman and it’s a beautifully curious landmark, worth taking a closer look at.
Wander around the Hermitage, take another boat out onto the river, and enjoy a picnic in the area. Warkworth is around 30 miles drive from Newcastle Airport but certainly worth the trip north.
3. Jesmond Dene, Newcastle
If you’re visiting central Newcastle and looking for a picturesque site for a stroll, Jesmond Dene is a purpose-built haven of tranquillity.
It is designed to offer a perfectly quiet spot for a picnic but it is also a wonderful place for a wander, with real North-Eastern charm and you can wander down from the main road to the ruins of the mill and then head down to the stream, where you’ll find that perfect picnic spot.
Jesmond Dene is under 7 miles from the airport and a gentle 10-15 minute walk from central Newcastle so it can be visited with ease and enjoyed with or without the whole family.
4. Marsden Circular Walk, South Tyneside
Another blustery coastal walk that you’ll want to wrap up for, the Marsden Circular Walk takes you up and along the sea cliffs of South Tyneside, with the chance to look out across the waves and truly immerse yourself in the nature of the North East coast.
You’ll pass by a 13th-century parish church, a windmill built in the 19th century, and a quarry that is known for its many species of wild birds and flowers, there are plenty of sights to see as you enjoy the walk from Marsden Rock. This, like The Leas, is managed and owned by the National Trust.
5. Tynemouth Beach, North Tyneside
It may not necessarily be your traditional beach time of the year but a stroll along the sands, even in colder climes, gives you a chance to see the beauty of the North East in all its glory.
Tynemouth Beach is just 8 miles from the centre of Newcastle and it is wonderfully picturesque with a bustling surfing culture on-season. Wandering along the beach, even at this time of the year, is a real treat and it’s a stereotypically British thing to do.