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Hidden Gibside, a guided history walk

Deep dive into Gibside's stormy history on a scenic 6-mile walk and discover relics of the past hidden in the landscape.

  • Booking essential
  • Admission applies

Beneath Gibside’s sweeping views and romantic Georgian design lies a stormy past shaped by coal, ambition and scandal. Built on industry and intrigue, Gibside conceals the remnants of quarries, drift mines and the power struggles of the Bowes family.

Unearth the past by tracing the footsteps of workers, visionaries and those who shaped Gibside’s fate. Led by historian David, this historical journey across the estate spans six scenic miles and lasts around 4.5 hours. You’ll be exploring the estate’s forgotten corners, from hidden relics to panoramic views.

Praised for his depth, warmth, and storytelling, and with decades of research behind him, David reveals history beneath the surface, guiding you through an estate exploration that’s as enlightening as it is unforgettable.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All £0.00
Check admission prices

The basics

Booking details

Call 0344 249 1895

Suitability

Designed for adults but older children welcome.

Meeting point

Outside of the second-hand bookshop.

What to bring and wear

Please bring a packed lunch, plenty of water and snacks. Please wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear.

Accessibility

This walk is approximately 6 miles long. There are some steep inclines and challenging climbs along the route, including areas not accessible to wheelchairs.

Other

Your history guide will be walking at a reasonable pace between informational sections. There will be water breaks and a lunch break along the route. There are restrooms near the café and at the Stables but not around the wider estate. Dogs are welcome on leads. We’d ask you to consider the suitability of the tour for your dog before bringing them. The guide will be talking throughout the tour, which may not be suitable for dogs who require more attention and the walk covers a large area with inclines.

Upcoming events

Tuesday health walk at Gibside 

A gentle guided stroll at Gibside.

Event summary

on
14 Oct to 30 Dec 2025
at
11:00 to 12:00
+ 11 other dates or times

Wednesday health walk at Gibside 

Explore Gibside on a free guided walk.

Event summary

on
15 Oct to 31 Dec 2025
at
11:00 to 12:30
+ 11 other dates or times

Living Literature: a poetry walk with Gateshead Libraries 

Follow the path of poets and experience words in the wild this autumn.

Event summary

on
16 Oct 2025
at
11:00 to 11:45

Wild wonders: a nature walk with a Gibside ranger 

Step into the wild with Gibside ranger Nick, and uncover the secrets of seasonal nature and conservation on this immersive guided walk.

Event summary

on
21 Oct 2025 to 10 Feb 2026
at
10:30 to 13:00
+ 2 other dates or times