When it comes to destressing and clearing your head, you can’t beat a good walk - and Newcastle has more to offer than you might think!
With campus sitting so close to the city centre, you might have never experienced some of the more beautiful, scenic areas in and around the city. But from the bustling Quayside to the majestic waterfalls of Jesmond Dene, there’s plenty to explore:
Tynemouth
Scroll through the pictures of Tynemouth below!
It tends to be a favourite amongst students, and it’s a favourite for a reason! Accessible directly on the metro, Tynemouth is undoubtedly one of the prettiest places in Tyne and Wear. You’ve probably heard of the Sunday markets - and they are totally worth a visit - but take just a short walk down the road from the metro station, and you’ll be greeted with stunning sea views, an array of pubs and cafes and plenty of scenic walking routes.
With the weather (finally) getting better, it’s the perfect opportunity to take a stroll on the beach and take in the sea air - you could even have a swim if you fancy it! Keep walking along the coastline and you’ll reach Whitley Bay, another lovely coastal town - or, alternatively, stay in Tynemouth and explore the historical Tynemouth Priory and Castle.
And, if your legs are getting tired, why not grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes scattered around the area? There’s so much to see and do in Tynemouth, making it the perfect place to go for a walk and a day out - it’s definitely a personal favourite of mine!
Jesmond Dene
If you’re after a more peaceful, woodland vibe, look no further than the long and winding valleys of Jesmond Dene! Just a fifteen minute walk from the South Gosforth Metro station, this beautiful stretch of woodland along the Ouseburn river boasts some of the prettiest sights of natural beauty you’re likely to see in Newcastle.
Scroll through the pictures of Jesmond Dene below!
It feels an absolute world away from the busyness of the city centre - the abundance of greenery and flourishing nature make it the perfect escape. Follow the Ouseburn river and you’ll reach the iconic Jesmond Dene waterfall, where it feels like a rite of passage to spend at least 5 minutes admiring the beauty.
There’s more than just scenery to enjoy though - along the paths you’ll encounter Pets Corner, where you can spend time with goats, sheep, rabbits, peacocks and more free of charge! Jesmond Dene is truly one of Newcastle’s hidden gems - it’s certainly one to tick off your bucket list as a student here.
Quayside
Scroll through the pictures of the Quayside below!
This one’s a little closer to campus, but it can still be easy to forget about! Around a 15 minute walk from Monument, the Quayside is probably one of Newcastle’s most famous areas, home to the illuminating Millennium Bridge.
Now that the sun’s finally showing its face, it’s a great time to take a relaxing stroll along the riverside and take in the atmosphere whilst admiring the stunning landmarks over the Tyne and across the water in Gateshead. I personally love being on the Quayside in the evening - watching the sunset over the River Tyne brings a calm like no other!
There’s plenty of stops on the way too - the Quayside is bustling with various cafes, bars and restaurants if you’re feeling peckish! With its mix of lively atmosphere and scenic views, it’s a brilliant spot to spend an afternoon or evening winding down.
Taking a break and giving yourself time to destress and relax is invaluable to your mental health, and walking is a great way to keep your mind in check.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a new student looking to discover new areas, why not get your walking boots on and explore what Newcastle has to offer? Even just an hour to let yourself wind down can make a world of a difference, and you can make the most out of Newcastle’s beauty whilst you’re at it!
By Bill, a second-year Computer Science student and Student Content Creator