Things to see and do at Gibside
Set in the backdrop of the Derwent Valley, close to Newcastle, Gibside boasts both historic ruins and space for roaming.
Reconnect with nature
Walking
Whether you enjoy a relaxing stroll or a longer hike over varied terrain, walking at Gibside offers opportunities to see historic ruins or venture into the wider estate.Its peaceful surroundings have rest spots aplenty, perfect for pausing to watch wildlife and to enjoy views across the landscape and over the Derwent Valley. There are four marked walks to choose from, with each taking you on a different route around the 18th-century landscape garden.
Wildlife spotting
Home to roe deer, red kites, badgers, bats, kingfishers and otters, you can spend a whole day observing the wildlife at Gibside. Head towards Snipes Dene and you'll find a bird hide tucked away along a path near the Banqueting House. Visitors here include siskins, sparrowhawks, green woodpeckers and greenfinches as well as the more common chaffinch, nuthatch and treecreeper.
Step into the garden
Visit with each changing season to witness the Walled Garden, from apples and pumpkins in autumn to blossom in spring, and wild flower meadows in summer. Find out what's growing this month. Venture further to discover the Orangery and shrubbery, or gaze at the red oaks and European larch that outline areas of the landscape garden.
Discover nature with expert guides
Guided walks and workshops are planned seasonally and have limited places, please check our events page for future dates to pencil into your diary.
Discover landmarks & dive into history
Take in Gibside’s vistas, buildings and quiet corners, or join our historians to delve even deeper into the details behind them.
The Orangery
The Orangery once housed a collection of exotic plants. A heating system kept the plants thriving through winter and you can still see the remains of a boiler today. The roof was removed between the First and Second World Wars but the Orangery remains a striking monument with plunging views of the Derwent valley.
Join wellbeing experiences
Gibside offers gentle ways to slow down and feel grounded in nature, with wellbeing experiences that invite you to move, breathe and reconnect.
Enjoy seasonal events
Experience Gibside time and time again. There's a whole calendar of events to enjoy! Watch theatre in the Walled Garden on a summer's evening, listen to live music in the Chapel, join wildlife watching with a ranger, get fit exploring trails with a community of motivators and feel festive at Father Christmas's workshop. Whatever your interests, there's something for everyone.
Keep up to date with events and the work we do, by following us on Instagram and Facebook.
Explore with kids
Along the Explorer Trail, families can build dens and visit Red Kite play area. Join us every school holiday for free family events and new ways to play.
Good reads and great food
Lose yourself in a literary adventure at one of the second-hand bookshops and unwind with a tasty homemade treat from one of Gibside cafés.
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Family things to do at Gibside
Gibside is the ultimate outdoor playground for families (from tots to teens). Whether you're climbing, swinging, or exploring, there's adventure at every turn. Wander the Explorer Trail, packed with nature and play areas or join events during school holidays.
Eating at Gibside
There’s something for everyone at Gibside’s cafés, including freshly made sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, kids' lunchboxes and, of course, really good coffee.
Countryside and woodland
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Historic houses and iconic buildings in the North East
From castles and country houses to pioneering feats of architecture, the National Trust cares for some of the North East’s most remarkable buildings. Step inside to uncover rich interiors, fascinating histories, and the lives of those who shaped these places. Whether you're drawn to dramatic design, innovation, or stories of the past, there's something to discover at every property.
Countryside in the North East
Explore the North East's wide open spaces on foot or by bicycle. There are nature reserves, vast estates and huge swathes of undulating countryside to discover, as well as plenty of wildlife to spot.
