Countryside and Wildlife

The Angel of the North from Lamesley Pastures

Did you know that over half of Gateshead is made up of Countryside?

The council cares for over 20 nature reserves and country parks for the benefit of people and wildlife. These wonderful places include ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, ponds and riverbanks and most are just a bus ride away.

There is lots to see and do in Gateshead's Countryside, you can take a walk, watch wildlife and escape from the stresses of modern life. Why not come along to one of our walks and events which take place throughout the year? Our Rangers are always willing to answer questions and give advice about wildlife and the countryside.

A girl at Thornley Woods education centre

Enjoying an educational visit at Thornley Woodlands Centre

Every year 100s of children benefit from our educational programmes on our sites and in schools. We also hope that our nature reserves have an impact on health and wellbeing and improve the quality of people's lives.

We have been involved in special projects such as Wildplaces, Breathing Places, Next to Nature and The Northern Kites Project, which aim to bring people and wildlife together.

If you want to get more involved in our work you can help us by joining our Countryside Volunteers. We also produce a number of leaflets and most of these are free.

Our aim is to, "Conserve, enhance and promote our countryside for the benefit of people and wildlife."

All wildlife photography used on our countryside pages is courtesy of Darin Smith.

External links

Gateshead Council

Countryside and Wildlife