Explore Gibside

Walkers heading past the orangery

Created by coal baron George Bowes, Gibside was fashioned with two things in mind: spectacular views and ‘wow’ moments.

And that is still true today.

Although there have inevitably been some changes over the last few decades, Gibside is now, more than ever, a place for everyone to enjoy. 

You can wander along miles of woodland and riverside tracks, we particularly recommend the Route to Relaxation trail. Discover the majestic Palladian Chapel designed by renowned architect James Paine and see the ruin Gibside Hall, perhaps while looking for red kites soaring over head or roe deer bounding through the woods.

If you enjoy delving into the past, then joining a tour could be for you. Hopefully we've got you covered for whether you enjoy heading off on your own adventure or joining others to do some exploration. 

Come on, let's go...

The interior of the chapel
A visitor walking through Gibside woods
A group on a tour
The orangery late on a summer evening
A woman sitting looking at the views
A hidden culvert at Gibside

Visit Gibside Chapel 

James Paine was the architect employed to design Gibside Chapel, and thanks to him the Chapel is now recognised for the superb craftsmanship of the stonework, and its symmetry, placing it in the company of some of the most celebrated Palladian churches in the country.

Walking at Gibside 

Sometimes all you need is a good walk. It's a chance to create more memories and enjoy sharing quality time together. If you've never visited Gibside before and would like some help making your way around. We have four downloadable walking routes and each one will take you to a different area.

Join a tour at Gibside 

As we celebrate the anniversary of female suffrage, join a tour to hear all about Mary Eleanor Bowes (1749 - 1800): Gibside's custodian, Georgian England's richest heiress and trailblazer. They're on every Friday, Sunday and Monday, 11.30am and 1.30pm.

Make the most of summer nights 

Explore Gibside until 9pm every Friday and Saturday until 15 September; indulge in a picnic, embark on a walk or play in the walled garden or simply relax on a deckchair. Once summer nights draws to a close, the cafe / pub will close on weekend evenings until May 2019, except for special events (free for National Trust members or normal admission charges apply).

Take the Route to Relaxation trail 

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.

The hidden engineering behind Gibside's garden 

Once inside, it's easy to forget that we're on a hill and that a lot of hard work went into the engineering of this place. Including, a network of culverts underfoot to control the natural flow of water. Mysterious.