Jesmond Dene

Jesmond Dene is a unique haven of peace and tranquility for the people of Newcastle. It is a narrow wooded valley that follows the river Ouseburn between South Gosforth and Jesmond Vale. This provides an important wildlife corridor right into the centre of Newcastle. There is a spectacular mix of native and exotic trees, and the Dene is home to a lot of wildlife, notably the Kingfisher, the Red Squirrel and many woodland birds. The Dene stretches for over three kilometres and has many areas of tranquillity, as well as ‘honey pots’ of activity.

Jesmond Dene provides strong historical links with 19th Century industrial development and landscape design – Lord Armstrong’ s influence being very apparent. There is also a large network of paths and bridges throughout.

Colemans field re-opened in February 2011 following a major refurbishment funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The refurbishment includes a new pathway linking Colemans Field to Benton Bank. A new bridge has been constructed over the Ouseburn to link the paths.

Near the entrance of Jesmond Dene, just off the Coast Road is Millfield House. This provides a range of activities including a Ranger Service Information Room, Conference Centre, café and toilets. This part of the Dene also has a large picnic area and a ‘Pet’s Corner’.

A brand new state of the art Visitors Centre is now open in Jesmond Dene next to Millfield House.
The centre is the base for the Parks Manager, Information Officer, Rangers and Education and Interpretation Officer. The visitors centre includes an exhibition space, classroom and offices. Adjacent to the Visitors Centre is Millfield House café and toilets.

Ouseburn Parks offers a variety of educational visits for school groups. Programmes complement the National Curriculum and cover topics such as habitats, food chains and local history. These workshops can be tailor-made to meet the needs of your class and visits can be arranged for full or half days. The new visitor centre in Jesmond Dene provides excellent facilities for school and community groups. If you would like more information, or to arrange a visit please contact the Education Officer -
Email: rebecca.morgan@newcastle.gov.uk
Phone: 0191 281 2082

Pets Corner underwent a complete refurbishment in autumn 2010 and reopened in February 2011 with a new aviary, animal pens and paths. The animals returned to Pets Corner on 19 February 2011.

A new play area is under construction and will be open in time for the Easter Holidays

Please do not bring food for the animals, they are on specially designed diets.
Please note we are not able to accept any animals for re homing.

Limited parking is available but alternatively there are good public transport links, many buses stopping at the Cradlewell on the Coast Road (A1058).

Other facilities in Jesmond Dene include Paddy Freemans boating lake, which also has a play area, toilets and a café open on weekends and holidays. The area can be reached along Freeman Road.