NewcastleGateshead, and the surrounding area is perfect for a casual jog or a pacey sprint. Whatever you are looking for there is a route for you. Whether you prefer scenic waterfront paths, historic city streets, or challenging hilly terrain, Newcastle has something to offer.
Read on to discover the popular running areas in and around the city.
The Town Moor
The Town Moor is a huge open grass land, close by to Exhibition Park, it offers a mix of paved paths and grassy trails, making it a versatile choice for runners. It is a hidden gem for runners in the heart of the city. The expansive green space, covering nearly 400 acres, offers a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, making it a haven for both casual joggers and serious athletes. One of the joys of running on the Town Moor is the sense of openness and space. The vast green fields, surrounded by a backdrop of city buildings, create a unique juxtaposition that makes your run feel like a journey through time and place. With ample room to roam, you can choose your own path, whether it's a leisurely jog or an intense interval workout.
For a rewarding challenge and stunning views of the city, head to the Moor Edge. This elevated section of the Town Moor provides a panoramic vista of Newcastle, the Tyne Bridge, and beyond. The ascent is a great opportunity to add some hill training to your run, and the view at the top is your well-earned reward.
This route is close to the city centre as well as Jesmond, so it offers a hub to all people wanting to exercise or take part in competitive running. The Town Moor is bigger than Hyde Park, making it a hotspot for events hosted by the city, perfect to practice your 10k.
The Quayside
For people wanting to take in the famous views of the Quayside like the seven bridges linking Newcastle and Gateshead and the Sage Gateshead with its unusual architecture, this route is perfect for getting your jog on whilst soaking up the scenery.
Your Quayside run might begin with the iconic Millennium Bridge, a true symbol of Newcastle's modernity. As you cross this architectural marvel, take in the panoramic views of the river and cityscape that are the perfect accompaniment to any run. Once you've crossed the Millennium Bridge, you'll find yourself on well-maintained riverside paths. These winding trails offer a mix of surfaces, from smooth pavements to compacted gravel, catering to runners of all preferences. Along the way, you'll pass quaint riverside cafes, art installations, and the Sage Gateshead, a world-class concert hall providing an elegant backdrop to your run. No visit to the Quayside is complete without running beneath the majestic Tyne Bridge. As you pass under this iconic structure, you'll be enveloped in a sense of history and grandeur.
If you're a fan of art and culture, be sure to include a pit stop at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art during your run. This striking former flour mill turned art gallery offers rotating exhibitions and stunning riverside views. It's a perfect place to catch your breath and appreciate the intersection of creativity and nature that the Quayside provides.
Run to Ouseburn with its trendy cafes and pubs, and take in the bustling area of the city. This route is perfect for those staying in the many hotels in the area, such as the Malmaison Hotel or the Hilton Hotel.
Jesmond Dene
Jesmond Dene is located between Heaton, Sandyford and South Gosforth and is the perfect place to go for a run, taking in the picturesque waterfalls and bridges. Run along the Ouseburn River, and past the historic Banqueting House and stop off at one of the cafes on site. Jesmond Dene has accessible paths, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities. As you run through Jesmond Dene, you'll encounter charming bridges, cascading waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you're seeking a peaceful jog to clear your mind or a challenging trail run, Jesmond Dene caters to all levels of runners, making it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors who appreciate the perfect blend of nature and fitness.
Tynemouth
For anyone looking for a run with an idyllic backdrop, Tynemouth is the place for you. Just a short journey from Newcastle, the charming coastal town boasts a stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and diverse terrain. Tynemouth caters to both beginners and seasoned athletes alike. Starting your run at Tynemouth Longsands Beach is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the coastal beauty of this town. This long, sandy beach is a runner's dream, providing a flat and forgiving surface that's easy on the joints. You can choose to run along the shoreline, feeling the cool breeze and listening to the soothing sound of the waves, or opt for a more challenging run in the soft sand for an added workout. The views of the North Sea and the historic Tynemouth Priory in the background make this route an unforgettable experience.
For a slightly longer coastal run, start at King Edward's Bay in Tynemouth and head north along the promenade towards Cullercoats Bay. This route takes you along a picturesque path that hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking vistas of the sea. You'll pass by charming seaside cottages, local cafes, and small fishing boats dotting the shoreline. The flat terrain makes it suitable for runners of all levels, and the roughly 2-mile round trip will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.
If you're looking for a more challenging coastal run with a touch of history, consider starting your run at Tynemouth Priory and heading south towards Whitley Bay. As you run along the paved promenade, you'll pass the iconic Tynemouth Pier and the Spanish Battery, where cannons once protected the town from naval attacks. The route offers a mix of gentle inclines and declines, keeping your run interesting and engaging. As you approach Whitley Bay, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the coastline and the famous St. Mary's Lighthouse in the distance.
Park Run
Parkrun are a free, community event where you can walk, run, volunteer or spectate. They regularly host running clubs in different places across the country, happening every weekend, an ideal place to exercise and socialise. Check out the different Parkrun’s happening in the North East:
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