Activities at Gibside

Take the Route to Relaxation trail

Breathe. Take some 'me' time and awaken your senses. It may be the school holidays however we've created a route to make sure you can still enjoy some peace and quiet. The Route to Relaxation will take you away from the crowds and on the path to some possibly needed TLC. Listen for wildlife and look out for nature as you go.

Sports at Gibside

Alongside the usual sport offer here, we do like to challenge ourselves, and hopefully you. If you enjoy pushing the boundaries how about seeing which events are coming up and book it in the diary.

Enjoy the summer

With sprawling grounds ideal for walks, relaxing and wildlife spotting, Gibside is perfect for a relaxing day out with family and friends. We've even got deckchairs in the walled garden awaiting your arrival and there are some scheduled events that might take your fancy too.

Weekend plans

Every Friday and Saturday evening, the whole estate is open for longer. So whether it's for a late summer sun stroll, more fun at Strawberry Castle Play Area, or downing your picnic blanket on the avenue, you are most welcome here.

Visiting for a day?

If you're looking for somewhere to take your group, Gibside could be just the place.

Gibside explorer trail

Enjoy an adventure in Gibside's 600 acre woodland. Along the way you can crawl along log bridges and clamber over tree trunks in the magical nature playscape, test your nerve on the low ropes course and let your imagination run wild in the Strawberry Castle fort.

• Easy
• 1 hour
• 2.2 miles (3.5km)

Gibside liberty trail

Created by George Bowes, inherited by Mary Eleanor and nearly destroyed by 'Stoney', see the grand historic features that play a huge part in Gibside's story and garden design.

• Easy
• 1 hour
• 2.4 miles (3.85km)

Gibside Wonders of Nature Trail

Explore woodlands, meadows, wetlands and along the riverside. You'll see nature at work and, if you are lucky, spot some wildlife at play.

• Challenging
• 2 hours 10 mins
• 5.5 miles (8.85km)

Gibside valley views trail

Enjoy far reaching views across the Derwent Valley and historically designed vistas through Gibside, many created as part of the historic garden design.

• Challenging
• 2 hours
• 4.4 miles (7.05km)

Walking at Gibside

Discover Strawberry Castle, spot the animal sculptures hidden in the West Woods and walk the ‘grand design’ of an 18th-century coal baron as you follow the self-led walks of our special place.

Dogs at Gibside

We ask you follow some doggie do's and dont's as you enjoy the estate with your dog at our special place.

Run at Gibside, Tyne & Wear

Run through the winding paths and open spaces of Gibside. And if you need a bit of encouragement, join one of our free friendly runs to get you started.